Robbery - Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait

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Incident Details

Incident Date & Time:

27 June 2025: 0032 UTC

Location:

Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait

Latitude/Longitude: 

1° 5' 25.20" N, 103° 43' 30.60" E

Vessel Type, Flag and Status:

Tanker, Camreoon, Underway

Incident Type:

Robbery

Crew status

No injuries reported

Incident Details

Description

On June 27, 2025, at 00:32 UTC, a robbery occurred aboard a Cameroon-flagged Tanker while underway in the Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait. The duty crew spotted four robbers in the engine room, with one perpetrator holding a gun-like object. Upon raising the alarm, the robbers escaped with engine spare parts. The Master reported all crew safe and accounted for. The vessel continued to her next port of call in China.

Response Actions

- Security Incident Reported

Stolen items

- Engine Spares

Key findings

This incident demonstrates a concerning level of boldness and preparation by the attackers. Their ability to board a moving vessel and penetrate as far as the engine room suggests a high degree of maritime skill and familiarity with ship layouts. The presence of a potential firearm indicates a willingness to use force, elevating the risk to crew members. The targeting of engine spares, rather than personal valuables, implies a sophisticated operation with a pre-established market for these specific items. The quick escape upon alarm activation suggests the attackers had a well-planned exit strategy, possibly involving a nearby support vessel.

Recommendations

- Implement enhanced watch rotations with additional crew members during transit through high-risk areas

- Install robust locking mechanisms and alarms on access points to critical areas like the engine room 

- Conduct regular anti-piracy drills to improve crew response time and effectiveness

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