Priority Broadcast Alert – Asia and Oceania

A Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier was reportedly boarded by six individuals while transiting eastbound in the Phillip Channel, 3.4NM northwest of Belakang Padang Island, Indonesia. The suspects were reportedly armed with bladed weapons and a ‘gun-like’ object. During the incident, the vessel was underway at 6.7kts, with an estimated freeboard of 6.35m. At the time of writing, the vessel was continuing her journey.
ADVICE: Crews transiting the Singapore Strait with freeboards lower than 10m 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.