Authorities Convene to Combat Piracy and Sea Robbery in Asia

Maritime regulatory and law enforcement authorities from Asia, Australia and Europe convened virtually on Tuesday to address piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia.

During the virtual Capacity Building Workshop, host ReCAAP Information Sharing Center (ISC) and participants from its member countries shared the information and assessment of the latest situation of piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia, in particular, in the areas of concern. They also discussed the way to further improve the accuracy and timeliness of authorities incident reporting to provide the maritime community with useful information and analysis.  

“We have seen an increase of piracy and sea robbery incidents in Asia during January to July this year with 58 incidents. This is an increase of more than 50% compared to the same period of last year (37 incidents),” said Masafumi Kuroki, Executive Director of ReCAAP ISC.

“Regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic, the participants of CBW confirmed their continued efforts for the enhancement of the safety of maritime transport in Asia so that vessels can transit unimpeded as they deliver vital supplies to the region and beyond,” Kuroki added.

ReCAAP Focal Point officers from across Asia, Australia and Europe participated in the Capacity Building Workshop, which for the first time, was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo: ReCAAP ISC)