The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) recently revealed a rise in global piracy and armed robbery incidents in the first quarter of 2025 – driven by a spike of incidents in the Singapore Straits. 

A total of 45 cases of piracy and armed robbery against ships were recorded in the first three months of 2025 – an almost 35% increase compared to the same period in 2024.  

Of the incidents reported, 37 vessels were boarded, four were hijacked and four had attempted attacks. The threat to crew safety remains high with 37 crew members taken hostage, 13 kidnapped, two threatened and one injured.

Rise of incidents in Singapore Straits

The Q1 report highlights a spike in recorded incidents in the Singapore Straits as 27 incidents were reported from vessels transiting these waters compared to seven for the same period in 2024. 

While most incidents were considered low-level opportunistic crimes, crew members were at great risk with guns reported in 14 incidents. In 2024, guns were reported in 26 incidents globally. Ten crew members were taken hostage in six separate incidents, two were threatened and one was reported injured.

Ninety-two percent of all vessels targeted in the Singapore Straits were successfully boarded, including nine bulk carriers and tankers over 100,000 deadweight tonnage in size. 

IMB Director Michael Howlett, said: “The reported rise of incidents in the Singapore Straits is concerning, highlighting the urgent need to protect the safety of seafarers navigating these waters. Ensuring the security of these vital routes is essential and all necessary measures must be taken to safeguard crew members.”

Note: The full summary of the IMB Piracy Report for January to March 2025 can be read here. 

Photo credit: The ICC International Maritime Bureau
Published: 21 April, 2025

A Panama-flagged crude oil tanker was boarded by an armed gang while transiting eastbound in the Philip Channel, 4.5 nautical miles northwest of Pulau Terung, Indonesia, according to Ambrey Analytics, the digital intelligence arm of the Ambrey risk management group, on Monday (21 April). 

The three individuals were reportedly armed with knives. At the time of the incident, the vessel was underway at 10.3 knots with an estimated freeboard of 6.3 metres. 

“The tanker was observed continuing on its original planned route to Johor, Malaysia,” Ambrey Analytics said in a report. 

It said crews transiting the Singapore Strait with freeboards lower than 10 metres are advised they are at heightened risk. 

“Crews should lock down access to the accommodation block and ship's stores. It is recommended to carry out partnered deck patrols. Do not confront criminals,” Ambrey Analytics added.

Photo credit: Ambrey Analytics
Published: 21 April, 2025

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Dalian Maritime University (DMU) on Friday (28 March) said they have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance talent development and academic exchange between Singapore and China in the maritime sector.

The MoU renewal was signed by MPA Chief Executive, Mr Teo Eng Dih, and Professor Shan Hongjun, President of DMU. This renewal builds on the successful collaboration established since 2021, and further strengthens talent development and knowledge exchange between both maritime ecosystems.

As part of the MOU, MPA and DMU will continue to engage in faculty exchanges, study visits and student exchanges in Singapore and Dalian, and joint maritime training and research programmes. Trainers from MPA, including subject matter experts and adjunct trainers, will contribute to courses, events and knowledge sharing. 

The collaboration will focus on digitalisation and decarbonisation, covering areas such as clean energy and sustainable practices in the maritime sector, digital transformation of maritime operations, environmental management, maritime safety, navigational technologies, and port management and smart technologies.

DMU is home to world-class facilities, including two ocean-going training vessels and state-of-the-art research centre. A leader in autonomous ship technology and innovation in smart and sustainable shipping, the university has recently launched its 3rd ocean-going new generation autonomous training vessel.

Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, MPA, said, “The renewal of this MOU reflects the strong partnership between MPA and DMU. As the maritime industry evolves, our collaboration in maritime education and training is more crucial than ever in preparing the next generation of maritime professionals. This agreement will enhance maritime talent development and knowledge sharing between Singapore and China, fostering innovation and sustainability in the maritime sector.”

Photo credit: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Published: 28 March, 2025