Maritime regulatory and law enforcement authorities convene to enhance measures to combat piracy and sea robbery in Asia

ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) today held its annual Capacity Building Workshop virtually for the maritime regulatory and law enforcement authorities (also known as Focal Points) of its member countries. The participants were from Asia, Australia and Europe.

During the virtual Workshop, ReCAAP ISC and the participants 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 incident reporting by Focal Points so as 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,” added Masafumi Kuroki.