India, a founding member of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP), is enhancing its collaboration with the Singapore-based Information Sharing Centre (ISC). Vijay D. Chafekar, Executive Director of ReCAAP, expressed expectations for tighter cooperation with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre to ensure safer seas in Asia. The 21-nation ReCAAP has garnered interest from countries outside Asia as well.
Chafekar noted that recent ship attacks primarily focus on stealing engine parts for parallel markets, with no reported crew kidnappings or hijackings in recent years. ReCAAP is preparing for its 20th anniversary event in March in Singapore, where future plans will be discussed among member representatives. He acknowledged a rise in petty thefts, particularly in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, deemed the most vulnerable points for maritime safety.
While incidents have risen slightly in Indian waters, with specific cases reported in Kakinada and Kandla, the arrest of perpetrators has helped reduce attacks. Last year, 132 piracy incidents were reported in Asia, reflecting a 23% increase from 2024, although only one involved an Indian-flagged vessel. Chafekar emphasized the need for shipping firms to report all thefts and unauthorized boardings promptly.
