October 2023 has been a month marked by significant global maritime security challenges. ESS Maritime presents its Risk Intelligence Report for this period, highlighting incidents reported by authoritative organizations such as UKMTO, GoG, U.S. Maritime Alerts, and ICC CCS. We provide a comprehensive overview of the maritime security landscape, with a particular emphasis on increasing security concerns in Southeast Asia.

The Impact on Maritime Security Worldwide

In October 2023, several global events have disrupted the maritime industry, prompting concerns for the safety of vessels and their crews.

Highlighted Incidents

Here is a recap of reported maritime incidents:

East Africa

October 5, 2023, South of Aden:

Suspicious Approach – UKMTO reported approximately ten small craft, each carrying seven to eight persons, approaching an Merchant Vessel to within 50 to 100 meters in position Lat 11.57.5N-Long 045.25.2E, 59NM south of ADEN.

– Ladders were sighted on two boats, leading to an alarm being raised. The small craft continued to follow for fifteen minutes, but the vessel and crew remained safe.

October 19, 2023:

Threat Notification – UKMTO reported heightened Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS) activity heading north out of Yemen. While there were no indications that commercial maritime vessels were the intended target, increased UAS activity was observed in the Eastern Red Sea. Masters were urged to report any UAS activity and follow industry guidance.

October 30, 2023:

Firing Practice Alert – A firing practice is scheduled from October 30 to November 2, 2023, in a specific area within the Red Sea. This exercise called for caution during transit.

Southeast Asia

October 16, 2023 – Belawan Port, Indonesia:

Security watchmen on a berthed product tanker reported that manifold items had been stolen. The theft was confirmed by the chief officer following an investigation of the storeroom. The incident was duly reported to the local agent.

October 13, 2023 – Singapore Straits:

A duty engineer on board a tanker underway spotted four unauthorized individuals on deck and immediately alerted the bridge. An alarm was raised, a PA announcement made, and the crew was mustered. The intruders managed to escape with stolen ship’s engine spare parts. The incident was reported to VTIS, and Singapore authorities conducted an investigation.

October 22, 2023 – Singapore Straits:

Approximately four or five robbers, armed with a gun and knives, boarded a bulk carrier underway. They took the third engineer hostage and tied him up. A duty oiler noticed the robbers and raised the alarm, prompting them to flee with stolen spare parts. The incident was reported to Singapore VTIS, and the Singapore coast guard launched an investigation.

West Africa

1st week of October – Takoradi Anchorage:

MDAT GoG reported a boarding incident involving a container vessel anchored at Takoradi Anchorage. Four unknown individuals in a canoe approached the vessel, with two of them boarding it. The duty crewman spotted them and raised the alarm, leading to the intruders leaving with items of the ship’s properties. Local port authorities were informed, and security vessels patrolled the area.

Prioritizing Safety and Preparedness

In these highly uncertain times, staying well-informed is crucial. ESS Maritime provides Risk Intelligence reports and Travel Risk Management services, particularly for areas marked as ‘dangerous.’ Don’t hesitate to seek our advice when uncertainties arise, and always prioritize the safety of your personnel and business. Explore our website for Resilience services to prepare for immediate action, whether at sea or on land.

With this comprehensive Risk Intelligence Report, ESS Maritime aims to empower you with the latest information, enhancing your decision-making capabilities in these challenging times. Stay safe and informed in the ever-evolving world of maritime security.