Description
On October 16, 2025, at approximately 23:04 UTC, a robbery occurred aboard a Liberia-flagged Tanker while at anchor in Luanda Anchorage, Angola. Two perpetrators boarded the vessel via the forecastle. The crew spotted the intruders and raised the alarm, causing the perpetrators to flee the vessel with stolen ship's stores. The incident was reported to Port Control.
Response Actions
- Security Incident Reported
- Local Maritime Authority
Stolen Items
- Ship Supplies
Key findings
This incident demonstrates a common tactic used by opportunistic thieves targeting anchored vessels. The perpetrators' choice to board via the forecastle suggests they were seeking to avoid detection by the crew, who are often more vigilant near the stern and accommodation areas. The quick response of the crew in spotting the intruders and raising the alarm proved effective in limiting the theft to ship's stores and preventing any potential harm to the crew. However, the successful boarding and theft indicate potential vulnerabilities in the vessel's security measures while at anchor.
Recommendations
-Implement enhanced watch rotations with particular focus on the forecastle area while at anchor.
-Install and maintain proper lighting and CCTV coverage, especially in vulnerable areas like the forecastle.
-Conduct regular security drills to ensure rapid crew response to boarding attempts.