Piracy Resurfaces as a Threat in the Singapore Strait

Pirates with guns in a small boat
By
Updated Published

The Singapore Strait is once again emerging as a hotspot for piracy, with recent incidents raising concerns among maritime operators.

In the latest attack, a Singapore-flagged bulk carrier was boarded by six individuals while traveling eastbound in the Philip Channel, located in Indonesian waters. This marks one of several similar incidents reported in the area over the past few months.

UK-based maritime security firm Ambrey reported that the intruders were allegedly armed with bladed weapons and a “gun-like” object. The vessel was underway at a speed of 12.3 knots during the incident.

Ambrey has advised crews transiting the Singapore Strait, particularly vessels with freeboards lower than 10 meters, to remain vigilant as they face an elevated risk of piracy.