Tanker Boarding off Singapore Highlights Rise in Maritime Security Incidents

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) reported an unauthorized boarding of the Singapore-registered chemical tanker, Basset, on February 28 in the Singapore Strait. The incident occurred outside Singapore territorial waters at around 07:00am (SGT). One crew member was injured during the boarding. As a result, the vessel is currently anchored in Singapore waters, and the Singapore Police Coast Guard and Singapore Civil Defence Force have been activated to provide assistance. Medical evacuation of the injured crew member is currently in progress.

The ReCAAP ISC has issued a warning to the maritime community regarding the increasing number of sea robberies targeting ships in the Singapore Strait. The organization cautions that further incidents are likely to occur. The chemical tanker incident was one of three reported on February 28 by ships transiting the Phillip Channel in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme in the Singapore Strait. These incidents occurred near each other, off Takong Kecil Light, Indonesia. In one of the other two incidents, engine spares were stolen from a bulk carrier.

During January and February 2025, a total of 21 incidents were reported in the Straits of Malacca and the Singapore Strait. This marks a significant increase from the six incidents reported during the same period in 2024. The rise in maritime security incidents underscores the importance of heightened vigilance and security measures for vessels transiting these waters. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation and taking steps to ensure the safety of ships and crew members in the region.

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