Robbery - Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait

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Incident Details

Incident Date & Time:

30 September 2025, 0140hrs UTC

Location:

Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait

Latitude/Longitude: 

1° 3' 21.00" N, 103° 38' 25.80" E

Vessel Name, Type, Flag and Status:

Malta, Tanker, Underway

Incident Type:

Robbery

Crew status

No injuries reported

Incident Details

Description

On September 30, 2025, at 0140hrs UTC, a Malta-flagged Tanker was boarded by three perpetrators while underway in the Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait. The attackers restrained a duty crewmember in the engine room, but the crewmember managed to escape unharmed. The robbers were observed stealing spare parts for the vessel's engine. All crew members were reported safe, and the vessel continued its transit to Ulsan, South Korea.

Response Actions

- No Response Mentioned

Stolen Items

- Engine Spare Parts

Key findings

This incident demonstrates a concerning level of boldness and preparation by the attackers. Their ability to board a moving vessel, target the engine room, and restrain a crewmember suggests a well-planned operation. The focus on engine spare parts, rather than personal valuables or bridge equipment, indicates a potentially sophisticated black market for these components or a specific order. The crewmember's escape highlights the importance of crew training in emergency situations, though it's unclear if this was due to the attackers' negligence or the crewmember's skills. The attackers' quick exit without further violence after being discovered suggests they prioritized a swift getaway over prolonged confrontation.

Recommendations

- Implement enhanced watch rotations and utilize additional lookouts, especially in high-risk areas.

- Secure engine spare parts in locked storage areas with limited access.

- Conduct regular drills for crew on how to respond to intruders, including safe escape and alert procedures.

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