IFC-IOR

Information Fusion Centre

Indian Ocean Region

MONTHLY MARITIME SECURITY UPDATE (MMSU)

May 2021

Collaboration for Safety and Security

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IFC-IOR is premised on mutual collaboration and cooperation and aims to advance maritime

safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region. The Centre aims to work closely with national

and regional agencies as well as like-minded organisations/ Centres to generate

comprehensive Maritime Domain Awareness. The mutual collaboration is further enhanced

with the presence of International Liaison Officers (ILOs) from partners nations positioned at

the Centre. The Monthly Maritime Security Update (MMSU) is a comprehensive effort by the

Centre to generate an overarching picture to assist the maritime community in better

understanding of the maritime challenges and threats in the region. While the various

maritime security threats are monitored on a daily basis by the integrated team with ILOs,

and is disseminated through the IFC-IOR website, the maritime security analysis culminates

in the form of MMSU. The maritime security incidents for the duration of 01 May – 31 May 21

have been categorised under the following heads: -

(a) Piracy and Armed Robbery

(c) Contraband Smuggling

(e) Illegal Unreported Unregulated Fishing

(g) Natural Events

(b) Maritime Terrorism

(d) Irregular Human Migration

(f) Maritime Incidents

(h) Environmental Security

264 incidents were monitored in the wider

Indian Ocean Region in the month of May 21.

Irregular Human Migration comprised

nearly one third of the total and were

followed by Maritime Incidents, IUU Fishing,

Contraband Smuggling and Piracy & Armed

Robbery.

Additionally, the Centre also monitors the maritime traffic in IOR. As per data observed, in

2020, approximately 145,000 vessels were monitored to be operating in the region. In the

month of May 21, an average of 21,000-22,000 distinct vessels have been observed in IOR, at

any given instance.

SCOPE

OVERVIEW OF INCIDENTS

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Piracy & Armed Robbery IUU Fishing Irregular Human

Migration Contraband Smuggling

Maritime

Incidents Maritime Terrorism

* GoG – Focus on only Piracy & Armed Robbery incidents; Mediterranean – Focus on only IHM incidents

The maritime security situation in the wider Indian Ocean region has been monitored under various maritime security threat categories for the month of May 21.

• Piracy & Armed Robbery – In May 21, the Centre observed a 9% increase in the number of incidents as compared to Apr 21 and a 52% decrease from May 20.

Majority of the incidents were reported in the Gulf of Guinea followed by Strait of Malacca and Singapore. Five incidents were recorded in GoG area in May 21, a slight increase from Apr 21 (04 incidents). There was a steep (64%) drop in the number of incidents in the GoG, as compared to May 20. This decrease may in part be attributed to enforcement efforts and enhanced presence of foreign warships, including those from the European Union. 10 seafarers have been kidnapped in GoG in two incidents, one of which occurred at more than 100 nm from the West African coast. Pirate action groups in the GoG retain their ability to target vessels at considerable distance from the coast. Vessels are advised to continue following industry guidance laid down in BMP WA. The Centre recorded three incidents in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS), all of which occurred in the Eastbound Lane of Traffic Separation Scheme in the Singapore Straits. Crew was reportedly threatened in one of the incidents but not harmed. One incident each of attack and Suspicious Approach were reported in the Red Sea. One attempted sea robbery was reported in Mozambique and one attempted sea theft was reported in India. The Centre continues to advise seafarers to avoid confronting the perpetrators.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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• Contraband Smuggling – The Centre observed a 28% increase in the number of incidents in May 21, as compared to Apr 21. Majority of the incidents were related to drug smuggling, followed by fuel smuggling and tobacco products smuggling. A 14% increase was observed in the number of recorded drug seizures from Apr 21. The drugs seized include Cannabis (~826kg), Methamphetamine (~774kg), Ketum (225kg) and hashish (~122kg). The major seizures of narcotic pills include 2.3 million captagon pills off Saudi Arabia and 28,000 yaba pills off Bangladesh. • IUU Fishing – A 3% increase was observed in the number of IUU incidents recorded in May 21, as compared to Apr 21. The Centre observed about 14% increase in the number of poaching incidents (24) as compared to Apr 21 (21). Bangladesh has imposed an annual 65-day fishing ban off the country's coast from 20 May - 23 Jul 21. A 61-day annual fishing ban has been imposed on the east coast of India from 15 Apr – 14 Jun 21 and from 01 Jun – 31 Jul 21 on the west coast of India.

• IHM Incidents – The Centre monitored an 18% decrease in reported incidents in May 21, as compared to Apr 21, which may be attributable to enhanced efforts by enforcement agencies. About 75% of the recorded incidents occurred in the Mediterranean region. Six incidents were reported off Mayotte and Sri Lanka each, two off Malaysia, one each off Madagascar, Malta, Oman and Vietnam. The restrictions on travel imposed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact is likely to be an additional influencing factor in such illegal crossings. • Maritime Incidents – The Centre monitored about 7% increase in reported incidents in May 21, as compared to Apr 21. Majority of the incidents involved SAR followed by capsizing of vessels, followed by medevac by coastal authorities. The Centre recorded three collisions this month, about 66% decrease from Apr 21. No significant oil-spills were reported in any of the collisions recorded. 14% of the total maritime incidents recorded in May 21, were associated with Cyclone TAUKTAE. • Environmental Security – The Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) tanker J. NAT (aka JESSLYN NATUNA, RADIANT and CHERISH) beached on the shipbreaking shores of Gadani, Pakistan on 31 May 21. This vessel reportedly contained hazardous residue and was denied entry by India and Bangladesh.

• Natural Events – Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm TAUKTAE and Very Severe Cyclonic Storm YAAS, occurred in the Arabian sea and the Bay of Bengal, respectively.

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PIRACY AND ARMED ROBBERY

12 piracy and armed robbery incidents (actual as well as attempted) were recorded by the Centre for the month of May 21. Majority of the incidents were reported in the Gulf of Guinea followed by Strait of Malacca and Singapore. This is a slight increase from the 11 incidents recorded in Apr 21 and a 52% decrease as compared to May 20 (25 incidents), driven by a steep drop in incidents in the GoG. GoG – Five incidents were recorded in GoG area in May 21, which is slightly higher than Apr 21 (04 incidents). There was a steep (64%) drop in the number of incidents in the GoG, as compared to May 20(17 incidents). This decrease may in part be attributed to enforcement efforts and enhanced presence of foreign warships, including those from the European Union. The risk of attack /abduction still remains high; with 10 seafarers being kidnapped in May 21 in two separate incidents. Both incidents occurred on vessels underway, with one vessel being targeted at more than 100 nm from the West African coast. SOMS – Three incidents were recorded in the SOMS, all in the Eastbound Lane of Traffic Separation Scheme in the Singapore Straits. These included one incident each of sea theft, attempted sea robbery and attempted boarding. Crew was reportedly threatened in one of the incidents but not harmed. Red Sea – One incident each of attack and Suspicious Approach were recorded off Yemen. Arabian Sea – An incident of attempted sea theft was recorded off Diu, India. East Africa – An incident of attempted sea robbery was recorded in Mozambique.

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The following piracy and armed robbery incidents were monitored in the region in the month of May 21: -

• Sea Theft/ At Monrovia Port, Liberia/ 02 May 21. (GoG) An incident of sea theft was reported onboard a France flagged container ship MARFRET GUYANE at Monrovia

Port, Liberia on 02 May 21. Reportedly, an unknown number of perpetrators boarded the vessel while it was

berthed alongside. Upon noticing the alert crew, one perpetrator jumped from the vessel and fled away. The crew

raised an alarm, and a search was conducted onboard. It was reported that the perpetrator escaped with some ship

spares. The incident was reported to the local port authorities.

• Suspicious Approach/ Off Zubayr Islands, Yemen/ 03 May 21. (Red Sea)

An incident of suspicious approach was reported onboard an LNG tanker (NAME WITHELD) off Zubayr Islands,

Yemen on 03 May 21. Reportedly, an unknown number of perpetrators approached the vessel onboard two skiffs

mounted with heavy machine guns and ordered the Master to stop the vessel. Upon sighting the skiff the vessel

carried out evasive manoeuvres. Subsequently, the skiff aborted the approach and fled away. The crew and the

vessel were reported to be safe.

• Attempted Boarding/ Off Batam Island, Indonesia/ 09 May 21. (SOMS)

An incident of attempted boarding was reported onboard a Greece flagged tanker ASTRO PERSEUS off Batam

Island, Indonesia on 09 May 21. Reportedly, while underway, a small craft was sighted following the ship from the

stern. The perpetrators attempted to board the ship with a hook or rope thrown to the ship, but it failed to reach the

ship. The master also made evasive manoeuvres and prevented the attempted boarding. The Master thereafter

reported that a search on board the ship was completed with no sighting of any perpetrators. Nothing was stolen

and all crew was safe. The coastal authorities were informed and the vessel continued to her next port of call.

• Attack/ Off Hudaydah, Yemen/ 18 May 21. (Red Sea)

An incident of attack was reported onboard a GREEN PEACE vessel (NAME WITHHELD) in Red Sea on 18 May 21.

Reportedly, four armed perpetrators onboard a passenger boat approached the vessel and fired shots in the air. The

Master of vessel raised the alarm, activated distress alert, increased speed and took evasive manoeuvres due to which

the perpetrators fled away. The crew and ship were reported to be safe.

• Kidnap/ Off Tema, Ghana/ 19 May 21. (GoG)

An incident of kidnap was reported onboard a Ghana flagged fishing vessel ATLANTIC PRINCESS about 66 nm

South of Tema, Ghana on 19 May 21. Reportedly, the vessel was boarded by five armed perpetrators (AK-47) while

SUMMARY OF PIRACY AND ARMED ROBBERY INCIDENTS

IMO calls for redoubled efforts to combat West African Piracy ➢ The global maritime community has called for enhanced efforts to tackle the rising menace of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea with the adoption of new IMO resolutions on increased collaboration. ➢ IMO intends to deploy technical cooperation funds to support capacity-building in the region, aiming to tackle piracy and armed robbery and to look at creating a common platform for information-sharing. Source:https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/imo-calls-for-redoubled-effort-to-combat-west-african-piracy

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underway in the Gulf of Guinea. The perpetrators escaped the vessel after kidnapping five crew members including

the Captain (three Chinese, one South Korean and one Russian) from the vessel. Upon investigation, it was reported

that laptop, phones, money and other valuables were missing. However, rest other crew members onboard the

vessel were reported to be safe. The incident was reported to the coastal authorities.

• Attempted Sea Robbery/ Off Tanjung Pergam, Indonesia/ 23 May 21. (SOMS) An incident of attempted sea robbery was reported onboard a Bahamas flagged bulk

carrier ALEA off Tanjung Pergam, Indonesia on 23 May 21. Reportedly, four

perpetrators boarded the vessel while underway in the Eastbound Lane of Traffic

Separation Scheme in Singapore Strait. While underway, the duty oiler sighted four

perpetrators in the engine room. One of the perpetrators threatened the duty oiler

with a knife but did not harm him. The perpetrators eventually escaped upon being

sighted. An alarm was raised and the crew mustered. A search was conducted

onboard and no perpetrators were found onboard. Nothing was reported stolen. All crew members and the vessel

were reported to be safe. The coastal authorities were informed and the vessel continued the voyage to her next port

of call.

• Sea Theft/ off Bintan Island, Indonesia/ 24 May 21. (SOMS)

An incident of sea theft was reported onboard a Marshall Islands flagged bulk carrier RB EDEN off Bintan Island,

Indonesia on 24 May 21. Reportedly, three perpetrators were sighted in the vicinity of the engine room, while the

vessel was underway in the Eastbound Lane of Traffic Separation Scheme in Singapore Strait. The ship's alarm was

raised and crew mustered. A search onboard was conducted and no further sighting of the perpetrators onboard.

Engine gaskets and O-rings were stolen. All crew are safe and accounted for. The vessel continued the voyage to her

next port of call.

• Attempted Sea Theft/ At Onne Port, Nigeria/ 26 May 21. (GoG)

An incident of attempted sea theft was reported onboard an Antigua & Barbuda

flagged cargo vessel UNISTREAM at Onne port, Nigeria on 26 May 21. Reportedly,

the duty crew sighted a perpetrator onboard the vessel while berthed at Onne Port.

The alarm was raised and crew mustered. The perpetrator escaped the vessel on a

canoe which was alongside the vessel. A search was conducted onboard, no

perpetrator was found onboard and nothing was reported to be stolen. Subsequently,

the coastal authorities were informed and a patrol vessel dispatched for

investigation. The perpetrator was reportedly apprehended one hour later.

Denmark to Send Navy Frigate to Combat Piracy in Gulf of Guinea ➢ Denmark has announced that it will send a Navy frigate to the Gulf of Guinea to combat piracy and crew kidnappings in the region. The frigate will have approximately 195 personnel, a Seahawk helicopter and maritime task force unit. The deployment is set to begin in Nov 21 and last approximately five months.

Source: https://gcaptain.com/denmark-to-send-navy-frigate-to-combat-piracy-in-gulf-of-guinea/

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• Attempted Sea Theft/ Off Diu, India/ 26 May 21. (Arabian Sea)

An incident of attempted sea theft was reported onboard a Saint Kitts and Nevis flagged

dead ship DAWN 1 while it was being towed by a Togo flagged tug MV VENTURE off

Diu, India on 26 May 21. Reportedly, 10 perpetrators in two fishing boats boarded the

vessel from the stern using a ladder. An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon

(EPIRB) distress alert was activated and a Marine Police vessel was diverted to the

location of the incident. However, the perpetrators had escaped. The crew of MV

Venture tried to ascertain the items stolen but could not confirm the exact losses. The

crew was reported safe. A team consisting of the Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police (Alang) and Customs boarded

the dead ship to investigate the incident upon the ship’s arrival at Alang anchorage on 27 May 21.

• Attempted Sea Robbery/ At Onne Port, Nigeria/ 29 May 21. (GoG)

An incident of attempted sea robbery was reported onboard Malta flagged Supply vessel at Onne Port, Nigeria.

Reportedly, perpetrators in a canoe approached a berthed offshore supply vessel. One perpetrator armed with a

knife boarded the vessel while the vessel’s crew were engaged in cargo operations. The duty crew sighted the

perpetrator while attempting to steal a hose coupling. The perpetrator thereafter reportedly escaped by jumping

overboard. Crew mustered and a search was conducted onboard.

Flag - Bahamas IMO – 9550266 Date – 23/05/21 Time – 2230 Hrs

Flag - Marshall Islands IMO - 976 5718 Date – 24/05/21 Time – 0046 Hrs

Attacks in the East Bound Lane of Singapore Strait TSS

➢ During May 21, three incidents occurred in the Eastbound Lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme in the Singapore Strait. All three vessels were targeted during dark hours; which included the attempted boarding on MT ASTRO PERSEUS and the successful boarding of the bulk carriers ALEA and RB EDEN. ➢ The analysis of these attacks and previous attacks show that perpetrators predominantly target vessels in the Eastbound Lane for stealing engine spares and other items that can be easily moved/liquidated. ➢ Perpetrators generally operate in small groups of 2-6 members from small boats or ‘sampans’. They are also highly likely to be armed with knives. ➢ Circumstances admitting, the perpetrators are likely to target multiple vessels during the night, till they succeed. This has been corroborated by the attacks on MV ALEA and MV RB EDEN, which were targeted in an interval of just over two hours, in positions that were less than 1 nm apart.

➢

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• Kidnap/ Off Cotonou, Benin/ 31 May 21. (GoG)

An incident of kidnap was reported onboard a Ghana flagged fishing vessel IRIS-S about 108 nm South of Cotonou,

Benin on 31 May 21. Reportedly, the vessel was boarded by unknown number of armed perpetrators onboard two

speedboats, while transiting the Gulf of Guinea. The perpetrators stole crew’s belongings and escaped the vessel

after kidnapping five crew members (four South Korean and one Filipino). The incident was reported to the coastal

authorities.

• Attempted Sea Robbery/ Off Fernao Veloso Bay Anchorage, Mozambique/ 31 May 21. (East Africa)

An incident of attempted sea robbery was reported onboard a Saudi Arabia flagged product Tanker Off Fernao

Veloso Bay Anchorage, Mozambique. Reportedly, two perpetrators armed with knives were sighted onboard by

duty crew. Alarm was raised and crew mustered. A search was conducted onboard, no perpetrator was found

onboard, and nothing was reported to be stolen. Subsequently, the incident reported to the Port Authorities via the

local agent.

Pirates of the Niger Delta by UNODC

➢ Despite efforts by coastal countries, including Nigeria, as well as by external actors, the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) remains one of the most dangerous maritime areas in the world, with acts of piracy now extending from Ivory Coast to Congo-Brazzaville. Viewing this problem with attention to its onshore dimensions, the report Pirates of the Niger Delta published by UNODC recently, argues that to disrupt GoG-piracy there is a need to understand the organisation of pirate group structures as well as distinguish between different types of piracy and riverine criminality.

➢ The report introduces an analytical distinction between Deep Offshore piracy, Coastal/Low-reach piracy, and Riverine Criminality. These distinctions form an analytical lens that helps illuminate important nuances of the complex and multifaceted phenomenon of Niger Delta-based piracy and riverine criminality. Such nuances are important when seeking to address different aspects of this ‘piracy’ problem.

➢ The focus of this report is on pirate groups based in the Niger Delta region. This report mainly uses piracy incident data from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Maritime Bureau’s (IMB) annual reports. The full publication can be accessed on:

https://www.unodc.org/res/piracy/index_html/UNODC_GMCP_Pirates_of_the_Niger_Delta_between_brown

_and_blue_waters.pdf

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CONTRABAND SMUGGLING

54 contraband smuggling incidents were recorded by the Centre in the month of May 21, about 28% increase from Apr 21 (42 incidents). Majority of the incidents were related to drug smuggling, followed by fuel smuggling and tobacco products smuggling. Drug Seizures – 24 drug seizures were recorded in May 21, a 14% increase from Apr 21. The drugs seized include Cannabis (~826kg), Methamphetamine (~774kg), Ketum (225kg) and hashish (~122kg). The major seizures of narcotic pills include 2.3 million captagon pills off Saudi Arabia and 28,000 yaba pills off Bangladesh. Domestic Product Smuggling – Four incidents of domestic product smuggling were recorded in May 21, one each was reported off India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The seizures involved onion seeds, cooking oil, turmeric, bird’s nests and bananas. The Centre monitored a seizure of about 840kg of turmeric and about 520kg of onion seeds. Wildlife Smuggling – Four incidents involving smuggling of wildlife were recorded in the month of May 21. The Centre monitored a seizure of about 175,000 lobster seeds in the month of May 21. Tobacco Smuggling – Nine incidents of tobacco products smuggling were recorded by the Centre in May 21. Fuel Smuggling – Ten incidents of fuel smuggling were recorded in May 21. Four incidents were reported off Vietnam, two each off Thailand and Indonesia and one each was reported off Malaysia and Oman. The total fuel seized in these incidents was about 320,000 litres.

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• Alcohol Smuggling/ Off Melonguane, Indonesia/ 01 May 21. (Liquor)

On 01 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities seized 22 Boxes of liquor from two passenger ships off

Melonguane, Indonesia. Reportedly, the authorities intercepted the suspicious vessels and recovered the contraband

after a search. The seizure was handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug & Alcohol Smuggling/ Off Fatufia, Indonesia/ 01 May 21. (Methamphetamine & Liquor)

On 01 May 21, it was reported that Indonesian authorities apprehended two suspects and seized methamphetamine

and liquor from a fibre boat off Fatufia, Indonesia. Upon inspection, the officials found 300 plastic bags of traditional

type alcohol stored in a box. In addition, 15 small packages of methamphetamine weighing 5.9 grams were also

recovered. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Tanjung Piai, Malaysia/ 02 May 21. (Syabu)

On 02 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended two suspects

and seized one kg syabu from a wooden boat about 0.5 nm South of Tanjung Piai, Malaysia.

Reportedly, the suspects attempted to smuggle the contraband to a foreign country via sea

route. The estimated worth of the seizure was reported to be USD 13,350. The suspects and

the seizure were handed over to the local officials for further investigation.

• Tobacco Smuggling/ Off Gelang Patah, Malaysia/ 03 May 21. (Cigarette)

On 03 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities seized 257,400 cigarettes off Gelang Patah, Malaysia.

Reportedly, the contraband was hidden inside a fish container and was about to be smuggled to a foreign country.

The estimated value of the seizure was reported to be worth USD 14,900. The seizure was handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Kankesanturai, Sri Lanka/ 03 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 03 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lanka Navy seized 183 kg cannabis about 08

nm North of Kankesanturai, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the contraband was cast-off in high

seas by the smugglers after they failed to smuggle them into the island. The contraband

was stuffed inside 58 parcels, which were packed in 04 sacks. The estimated worth of

the seizure was reported to be USD 279,200. Seized drugs was handed over to the local

officials for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Musandam, Oman/ 03 May 21. (Hashish)

On 03 May 21, it was reported that the Omani authorities apprehended a suspect and seized 07 kg of hashish off

Musandam, Oman. Reportedly, the contraband was smuggled from a foreign country via sea route and was found

hidden between rocks. The suspect and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

SUMMARY OF CONTRABAND SMUGGLING INCIDENTS

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• Alcohol Smuggling/ Off Limah, Oman/ 04 May 21. (Beer)

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Oman authorities apprehended three suspect and seized 2,230 cans of beer

and 24 bottles of liquor from a boat off Limah, Oman. Reportedly, the authorities intercepted the suspicious boat

and recovered the contraband during the search conducted onboard. The suspects and the seizure were handed over

to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Tobacco/ Off Dar es Salaam Port, Tanzania/ 04 May 21. (Shisha)

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Tanzania authorities seized 500 containers of expired 'shisha' products at the

Dar es Salaam port, Tanzania. Reportedly, the contraband was smuggled from a foreign country via sea-route and

was found inside 40 ft containers. The seizure was handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Hai Phong, Vietnam/ 04 May 21. (Diesel)

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Vietnamese authorities apprehended two crew and seized 25,000 ltr diesel

from a vessel off Hai Phong, Vietnam. Reportedly, the vessel was transporting the diesel without valid documents.

The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local officials for further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Ca Mau, Vietnam/ 04 May 21. (Diesel)

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Vietnam authorities apprehended five suspects and

seized 140,000 ltr diesel from a fishing boat TG-91856 TS about 80 nm Southeast of Ca

Mau, Vietnam. Reportedly, the Master of the vessel failed to produce any legal proof for

origin of the diesel onboard. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to local

officials for further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Hai Phong, Vietnam/ 05 May 21. (Diesel)

On 05 May 21, it was reported that the Vietnam Coast Guard seized 30,000 ltr diesel from a fishing boat HP-8527 off

Hai Phong, Vietnam. Reportedly, the crew of the vessel failed to produce invoices and documents to prove the

legality of the diesel onboard. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to local authorities for further

investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Aceh, Indonesia/ 06 May 21. (Meth)

On 06 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian National Narcotics Agency apprehended seven suspects and

seized 581 kg crystal methamphetamine off Aceh, Indonesia. Reportedly, the contraband was suspected to be

smuggled from foreign country via sea route. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities

for further investigation.

➢ Comments. As per reports, the smoking of shisha in Tanzania is banned by government, which includes the sales distribution and purchase of the product. ➢ Shisha usually contains tobacco, sometimes mixed with fruit or molasses sugar. Wood, coal or charcoal is burned in the shisha pipe to heat the tobacco and create the smoke. ➢ In a typical shisha session (about one hour), a shisha smoker can inhale the same amount of toxins as a cigarette smoker consuming over 100 cigarettes.

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• Drug Smuggling/ Off Sri Lanka/ 07 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 07 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended seven foreign crew

members and seized 235 kg cannabis from a foreign fishing vessel in Sri Lankan waters.

Reportedly, the contraband was stuffed inside 118 packages. The estimated value of the

seizure was reported to be about USD 358,000. It was reported that the contraband was set

on fire and foreign nationals were sent back.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Balikpapan, Indonesia/ 07 May 21. (Meth)

On 07 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended five suspects and seized 25 kg meth

from a chartered fast boat off Balikpapan, Indonesia. Reportedly, the contraband was hidden inside three couriers

and was smuggled from a foreign country. The suspects and the seizure were taken into custody for further

investigation.

• Domestic Product Smuggling/ Off Negombo, Sri Lanka/ 07 May 21. (Onion Seed)

On 07 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended two local suspects and

seized 522 kg onion seeds from a dinghy off Negombo, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the

contraband was stuffed inside 20 packages and was attempted to be smuggled into the

country via sea route. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to local officials for

further investigation.

• Wildlife Smuggling/ Semayang Port, Indonesia/ 08 May 21. (Wildlife)

On 08 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities foiled an attempt to smuggle Cucak Ijo birds (green

chirping birds) through Semayang Port to Surabaya. The birds were found inside a plastic basket packed with brown

duct tape. The contents were later found to be 16 Cucak Ijo birds. The officers confiscated the birds as the owner

could not produce valid documents. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for

further investigation.

• Weapon Smuggling/ Off Mutsamudu, Comoros/ 09 May 21. (Dynamites)

On 09 May 21, it was reported that the Comoros authorities apprehended a suspect and seized 200 sticks of

dynamites from a ship DIANA 2 off Mutsamudu, Comoros. Reportedly, the contraband was smuggled from a foreign

country via sea. The suspect and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Weapon Smuggling/ Off Arabian Sea/ 09 May 21. (Rifle & Missile)

On 09 May 21, it was reported that a US Navy guided-missile cruiser USS MONTEREY seized arms shipment from a

dhow in Arabian Sea. Reportedly, the cruiser intercepted the dhow and boarding team recovered the arm shipment

during search conducted onboard. The seizure included dozens of advanced anti-tank guided missiles, thousands of

assault rifles, hundreds of machine guns, sniper rifles and rocket-propelled grenades launchers. The seizure was

handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Johor, Malaysia/ 12 May 21. (Syabu)

On 12 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended five suspects and seized 125 kg syabu in

Johor, Malaysia. Reportedly, the contraband was being smuggled to a foreign country via sea route. The estimated

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value of the seizure was reported to be about USD 1.09 million. The suspects and the seizure were taken into

custody for further investigation.

• Tobacco Smuggling/ Off Colombo, Sri Lanka/ 13 May 21. (Cigarette)

On 13 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan authorities seized 200 million foreign cigarettes from 21 freight

containers off Colombo, Sri Lanka. It was reported that the contraband was smuggled from a foreign country via

sea-route for onward export to other foreign countries and were mis-declared as tea bags. The estimated value of the

seizure was reported to be about USD 45.68 million. The seizure was handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Kuala Perlis, Malaysia/ 13 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 13 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended six suspects and seized over 190 kg

Cannabis from a fishing boat off Kuala Perlis, Malaysia. Reportedly, the suspects attempted to smuggle the

contraband into the country via sea-route. The estimated value of the seizure was reported to be about USD 115,400.

The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Sharjah, UAE/ 14 May 21. (Drug)

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Sharjah Police apprehended seven suspects and

seized 51,000 pills & 115 kg drugs (type not mentioned) off Sharjah, UAE. Reportedly, the

suspects attempted to smuggle the contraband into the country via sea route. The suspects

and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Con Dao, Vietnam/ 14 May 21. (Diesel)

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Vietnam authorities seized 45,000 ltr diesel from a

fishing boat about 55 nm Southeast of Con Dao, Vietnam. Reportedly, the vessel was

transporting the diesel without a valid permit. The seizure and the boat were handed over

to local authorities for further investigation.

• Tobacco Smuggling/ Off Singapore/ 15 May 21. (Cigarette)

On 15 May 21, it was reported that the Singapore authorities apprehended three suspects and seized 364 cartons of

cigarettes from a vessel off Singapore. Reportedly, the contraband was stuffed inside the black plastic bags and being

transported in the country without paying the custom duty. The suspects and the seizure were taken into custody

for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Jeddah, Saudi Arabia/ 16 May 21. (Captagon Pills)

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Saudi authorities apprehended four suspects and seized 2.3 million captagon

pills off Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Reportedly, the contraband was suspected to be smuggled from a foreign country via

sea-route. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Tobacco Smuggling/ Off Zamboanga, Philippines/ 18 May 21. (Cigarette)

On 18 May 21, it was reported that the Philippine Coast Guard apprehended 12 suspects

and seized 502 cases of cigarettes from two motorboats MB NURSHIDA and MB

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DREAMBOY off Zamboanga, Philippines. Reportedly, the contraband was originated from Sulu province of the

country. The estimated value of the seizure was reported to be about USD 365,100. The suspects and the seizure

were taken into custody for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Bazar Ghat, Bangladesh/ 19 May 21. (Yaba Pills)

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Bangladesh Coast Guard apprehended six suspects and seized 28,000 yaba

pills from a boat off Bazar Ghat, Bangladesh. Reportedly, the authorities intercepted the suspicious boat and

recovered the contraband during search conducted onboard. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Tho Chu Island, Vietnam/ 19 May 21. (Diesel)

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Vietnamese authorities apprehended seven suspects and seized 57,000 ltr

diesel from two vessels KG 95548TS and CM 95913TS off Tho Chu Island, Vietnam. Reportedly, the Masters of both

vessels failed to present documents proving legality of the diesel carried onboard. The seizure and the fishing boats

were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Tobacco & Domestic Product Smuggling/ Off Thoothkudi, India/ 19 May 21. (Beedi Leave & Turmeric)

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Indian authorities apprehended one suspect and seized 840 kg of turmeric

and 420 kg of beedi leaves while loading in a boat in Thoothkudi, India. Reportedly, the turmeric and beedi leaves

were stuffed inside 28 bags and 14 bags respectively. The estimated value of the seizure was reported to be about

USD 5470. The suspect and the seizure were taken into custody for further investigation.

• Tobacco Smuggling/ Off Tawau, Malaysia/ 19 May 21. (Cigarette)

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities seized 920 packets of cigarettes off Tawau, Malaysia.

Reportedly, the contraband was hidden inside plastic bags. The estimated value of the seizure was reported to be

worth USD 3200. The seizure was handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Mannar, Sri Lanka/ 20 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 20 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended one suspect and seized

more than one kg cannabis off Mannar, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the contraband was suspected to

be smuggled inside the country via sea-route. The suspect and the seizure were handed over to

the local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Trincomalee, Sri Lanka/ 21 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 21 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended one suspect and seized about 1.8 kg cannabis

off Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the contraband was suspected to be smuggled into the country via sea-route.

The suspect and the seizure were taken into custody for further investigation.

• Wildlife Smuggling/ Off Tanjun Jabung, Indonesia/ 21 May 21. (Lobster Seeds)

On 21 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended four suspects and seized 135,000 lobster

seeds from a wooden boat off Tanjun Jabung, Indonesia. Reportedly, the contraband was stuffed inside 36 boxes and

16

was suspected to be smuggled to a foreign country. The estimated worth of seizure was reported to be about USD

1.39 million. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to local authorities for further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Labuan Bajo, Indonesia/ 21 May 21. (Kerosene)

On 21 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended five suspects and seized 2000 ltr of

kerosene from a motorboat off Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. The vessel was reportedly transporting the diesel without

valid documents which were filled in 100 jerry cans. The seizure and the suspects were handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Jazan Port, Saudi Arabia/ 22 May 21. (Hashish)

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Saudi authorities seized 115 kg of hashish in Jazan Port, Saudi Arabia.

Reportedly, the contraband was suspected to be smuggled via sea route. The seizure was handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Mahe, Seychelles/ 22 May 21. (Hashish & Heroin)

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Seychelles authorities apprehended seven

personnel (three local and four foreign nationals) for smuggling drugs onboard a local

fishing vessel BABA ALI about 160 nm Northeast of Mahe, Seychelles. Upon noticing the

approaching patrol team, the suspects threw packages overboard. However, the authorities

were successful in recovering the contraband. The contraband packets comprised of

hashish and heroin and were to be worth USD 1.2 million. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Jaffna, Sri Lanka/ 22 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Navy seized about 132 kg cannabis in

the beach area of Thandamanaru off Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the contraband was

stuffed inside four sacks and was suspected to be smuggled via sea-route. The estimated

value of the seizure was reported to be about USD 200,100. The contraband was destroyed

by Sri Lankan Navy post seizure.

• Wildlife Smuggling/ Off Lanal Batam, Indonesia/ 22 May 21. (Lobster Seeds)

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended two suspects and seized over 40

thousand sand lobster seeds and 178 pearl lobster seeds off Lanal Batam, Indonesia. Reportedly, the contraband was

stuffed inside 55 plastic bags (inside a box) and was suspected to be smuggled to a foreign country. Upon noticing

the approaching patrol team, the suspects threw the box overboard. However, the authorities were successful in

recovering the box. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

➢ Comments. As per reports, this incident revealed a new mode of smuggling lobster seeds out of Indonesia where the perpetrators no longer use styrofoam boxes to carry baby lobsters. They have now started to use fish fiber boxes. ➢ The packaging was also different from usual, in this incident the perpetrators packed them in plastic bags without water (commonly referred to as dry packing). Baby lobsters are placed on moist cotton before being put into a plastic bag.

17

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Musandam, Oman/ 23 May 21. (Diesel)

On 23 May 21, it was reported that the Oman authorities seized undocumented diesel from a boat off Musandam,

Oman. Reportedly, the vessel was transporting the diesel without a valid permit. The seizure was handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Mibat, Oman/ 23 May 21. (Khat)

On 23 May 21, it was reported that the Omani authorities apprehended four foreign nationals for smuggling khat

(quantity not mentioned) off Mirbat, Oman. Reportedly, the authorities intercepted a suspicious boat and seized the

contraband post a search onboard. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Kuala Perlis, Malaysia/ 23 May 21. (Ketum)

On 23 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities seized 225 kg ketum leaves

from a wooden boat about 03 nm West of Kuala Perlis, Malaysia. Reportedly, the

contraband was stuffed inside 17 black plastic packages and was suspected to be

smuggled to a foreign country. Upon noticing the approaching patrol team, the suspect

threw the contraband overboard and escaped inland. However, the authorities were

successful in recovering the contraband. The estimated worth of seizure was reported to be about USD 11,000. The

seizure was handed over to local authorities for further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Kemaman Harbor, Malaysia/ 24 May 21. (Oil)

On 24 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities seized two supply vessels for conducting illegal ship to

ship oil transfer in the waters of Kemaman Harbor, Malaysia. Reportedly, the ships were conducting oil transfer

without a valid permit. The seized vessels were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Domestic Product Smuggling/ Off Bum Bum Island, Malaysia/ 25 May 21. (Cooking Oil)

On 25 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities seized 102 packets of

cooking oil from a pump boat off Bum Bum Island, Malaysia. Reportedly, the cooking oil

was suspected to be smuggled to the neighbouring countries via sea route. Upon noticing

the approaching patrol team, the suspect jumped off the boat and fled away. However, the

authorities were successful in recovering the contraband. The seized boat and the seizure

were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Wildlife Smuggling/ Off Jayapura Port, Indonesia/ 25 May 21. (Husky Dog)

On 25 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities seized three husky dogs from

the waters off Jayapura Port, Indonesia. Reportedly, the dogs were brought in a passenger

vessel KM CIREMA without valid documents and were thrown overboard for onward

collection by another speed boat. The authorities recovered the dogs from the port waters

and handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

18

• Domestic Product Smuggling/ Off Satun, Thailand/ 26 May 21. (Bird’s Nest & Banana)

On 26 May 21, it was reported that the Thai authorities apprehended seven suspects and seized 90 kg bird's nest and

50 kg bananas from a cargo ship KM.ANTAMELA off Satun, Thailand. Reportedly, the items were being transported

without customs clearance. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to local authorities for further

investigation.

• Tobacco Smuggling/ Off Al Batinah, Oman/ 26 May 21. (Tobacco)

On 26 May 21, it was reported that the Oman authorities seized 300 boxes of tobacco products weighing 9900 kg off

Al Batinah, Oman. Reportedly, the contraband was suspected to be smuggled into the country via sea-route. The

seizure was handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

Guide on Drafting Legislation to Combat Wildlife Crime -UNODC

➢ The primary objective of this Guide on Drafting Legislation to Combat Wildlife Crime (“the Guide”) is to assist States in protecting wildlife by criminalizing serious wildlife offences, as defined in this Guide, thereby enhancing States’ prosecution and criminal justice capacities. ➢ The Guide is intended as a technical assistance tool to assist States in reviewing and amending existing legislation and adopting new legislation against wildlife crime in line with the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (Organised Crime Convention) and the United Nations Convention against Corruption. ➢ Through this, the Guide supports the achievement of two United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Principally, the Guide can be used by States to take urgent action to end poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora and fauna. The Guide also supports promoting the rule of law at national and international levels and ensuring equal access to justice for all. The full guide can be accessed on the following link: https://www.unodc.org/documents/Wildlife/Legislative_Guide.pdf

19

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Sepahat, Indonesia/ 27 May 21. (Meth)

On 27 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended a suspect and seized one kg of meth

from a boat off Sepahat, Indonesia. Reportedly, the contraband was hidden inside Chinese tea packaging and was

smuggled from a foreign country. Upon noticing the approaching patrol boats, the suspect jettisoned the contraband

overboard and attempted to escape. However, the authorities were successful in apprehending the suspect and

recovered the contraband. The suspect and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• Tobacco Smuggling/ Subic Port, Philippines/ 28 May 21. (Fake Cigarette)

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Philippine authorities intercepted two shipments of fake cigarettes in the

Port of Subic, Philippines. The consignment reportedly arrived at the port on 19 May 21 in two 40-foot containers.

The contraband hidden inside a consignment of footwear was estimated to be worth USD 1.38 million. Further

investigation was reported to be underway.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Kuala Linggi, Malaysia/ 28 May 21. (Syabu)

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian Authorities apprehended two suspects (foreign nationals)

attempting to smuggle out drugs and seized 10 kg of syabu from a speedboat off Kuala Linggi, Malaysia. Reportedly,

the contraband was stuffed inside 10 green packages hidden inside the speedboat. The estimated worth of seizure

was reported to be about USD 109,100. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for

further investigation.

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Tanjung Balai Karimun, Indonesia / 29 May 21. (Diesel)

On 29 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended three suspects and seized 13000 ltr of

diesel from a wooden ship off Tanjung Balai Karimun, Indonesia. The vessel was reportedly transporting the diesel

without a valid permit. The seizure and the suspects were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Sungai Kapar Kecil, Malaysia/ 30 May 21. (Syabu)

On 30 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian Authorities apprehended two suspects and seized 31 kg syabu and

25 kg ecstasy from a boat off Sungai Kapar Kecil, Malaysia. Reportedly, the suspects were enroute to rendezvous

with another boat in open waters to transfer the drugs when they were intercepted by the patrol. The estimated

worth of seizure was reported to be about USD 799,800. The suspects and the seizures were handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation. A third suspect onboard the boat reportedly died during the interception, when

the boat carrying contraband collided with the patrol boat.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Kottadi, Sri Lanka/ 30 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 30 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Navy seized 49 kg of cannabis from

a dinghy in the beach area of Kottadi, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the contraband was

concealed inside polythene sacks and was suspected to be smuggled inside the country

via sea route. The estimated worth of seizure was reported to be about USD 70,600.

The contraband was handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

20

• Fuel Smuggling/ Off Surat Thani, Thailand/ 30 May 21. (Diesel & Gasohol Oil)

On 30 May 21, it was reported that the Thai authorities apprehended four suspects for smuggling 4000 ltr diesel and

4000 ltr gasohol oil onboard a local boat off Surat Thani, Thailand. Reportedly, the suspects were transporting the

diesel and oil without valid documents. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for

further investigation.

• Drug Smuggling/ Off Kottadi, Sri Lanka/ 31 May 21. (Cannabis)

On 31 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Navy seized about 32 kg cannabis from the beach area of Kottadi,

Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the contraband was stuffed inside two polythene sacks and was suspected to be smuggled

inside the country via sea route. The estimated worth of seizure was reported to be about USD 45,670. The

contraband was handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

The Lionfish operations, coordinated by INTERPOL

➢ The Lionfish model of operations targets drug trafficking along air, land and maritime routes, resulting in major seizures and fresh intelligence. First held in Latin America in 2013, it has proven highly successful and has since expanded to other regions of the world. ➢ Operation Lionfish is supported by external funding. It is a fundamental part of INTERPOLS’s Project AMEAP (Africa-Middle East-Asia Pacific), which coordinates initiatives against drug trafficking with funding by the INTERPOL Foundation for a Safer World and the United Arab Emirates. Support from the Cocaine Route Programme of the European Union helps cover other regions. ➢ Two recent INTERPOL-coordinated operations aimed at disrupting drug trafficking in Africa and the Middle East mobilised law enforcement in 41 countries to arrest 287 individuals and seize illicit narcotics estimated to be worth nearly EUR 100 million. International drug trafficking is just as globalised as the world’s economy. ➢ The results of these operations, codenamed Lionfish, provide a snapshot of the international underworld of drug trafficking, with criminals constantly seeking new routes and ways to smuggle narcotics across borders. ➢ The Lionfish operations, which took place in March and April of 2021, saw police and customs officials coordinate enforcement actions at borders and other hotspots during a specific two-week period, first on the African continent and then in the Middle East and North Africa region. The full report can be accessed on the following link: https://www.interpol.int/News-and-Events/News/2021/Massive-drug-seizures-in-twin-operations-across-Africa-and-Middle-East

21

IUU FISHING

45 IUU fishing incidents were recorded by the Centre for the month of May 21, an increase of about 3% from Apr 21 (44 incidents). 14% increase observed in the number of poaching incidents recorded (24) as compared to Apr 21 (21). Local IUU Fishing – The Centre monitored a total of 21 incidents of local IUU fishing. Majority of the incidents were reported in Malaysia (12) followed by Indonesia (05), Sri Lanka (02) and one each in Thailand and Oman. The arrests and subsequent legal actions by the local agencies were aimed to curb illegal fishing using banned nets, trawling, blast fishing and fishing outside the designated areas without license. Some fishermen were apprehended for fishing of banned species and fishing during the period of seasonal ban. Poaching – Arrest of foreign fishermen undertaking poaching in waters of another country were reported in India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malacca Strait, Malaysia, Mauritius and Seychelles. Bangladesh has imposed an annual 65-day fishing ban off the country's coast from 20 May - 23 Jul 21. A 61-day annual fishing ban has been imposed on the east coast of India from 15 Apr – 14 Jun 21 and from 01 Jun – 31 Jul 21 on the west coast of India.

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• IUU Fishing/ Off Langkat, North Sumatra/ 01 May 21. (Poaching)

On 01 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended seven foreign fishermen for engaging in

illegal fishing off Langkat, North Sumatra. The fishermen were fishing in the prohibited area without a valid permit.

The fishermen and the seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Ketapang Regency, Indonesia/ 02 May 21. (Local)

On 02 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended seven fishermen and seized two fishing

vessels for engaging in illegal fishing off Ketapang Regency, Indonesia. Reportedly, the boats were observed to be

fishing using illegal fishing gears. The authorities also seized various fishing gears from the boats. The suspects and

the seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off East Flores, Indonesia/ 02 May 21. (Local)

On 02 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended six fishermen and seized a local fishing

vessel off East Flores, Indonesia. Reportedly, the fishermen were observed to be fishing illegally using fish bombs.

The authorities also seized three boxes of fish catch from the boat. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to

the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Dompu, Indonesia/ 02 May 21. (Local)

On 02 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended four fishermen and siezed a fishing

vessel off Dompu, Indonesia. Reportedly, the fishermen were observed to be fishing illegally using fishing bombs.

The authorities also seized various illegal fishing gears and fish catch from the boat. The suspects and seized boat

were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kuala Kuantan, Malaysia/ 03 May 21. (Local)

On 03 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended five fishermen

from a local class C fishing boat about 1.7 nm South East of Kuala Kuantan, Malaysia.

Reportedly, the fishermen did not possess valid work permits and vessel license. The

authorities also seized fish catch and fishing equipment from the vessel. The suspects and

seizure along with the seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Malacca Strait/ 04 May 21. (Poaching)

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended six foreign fishermen from a foreign

fishing boat in Malacca Strait. Reportedly, the fishermen were fishing inside the country’s waters without a valid

permit. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Port Blair, India/ 04 May 21. (Poaching)

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Indian Coast Guard ship RAJSHREE apprehended four foreign fishermen

from a fishing vessel for engaging in illegal fishing off Port Blair, India. Reportedly, the suspects were fishing inside

SUMMARY OF IUU FISHING INCIDENTS

23

the country’s waters without a valid permit The authorities also seized fish catch including sea cucumber, turtle

skull and conch shells from the vessel. The fishermen and the seized boat were handed over to the local authorities

for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Lahad Datu, Malaysia/ 04 May 21. (Local)

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended two

fishermen and seized a fishing vessel for engaging in illegal fishing off Lahad Datu,

Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were observed to be fishing using banned fish

bombs. The authorities also seized 15 kg of fish catch from them. The fishermen and the

seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kuala Kemaman, Malaysia/ 05 May 21. (Poaching) On 05 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended four fishermen

from a foreign fishing boat for engaging in illegal fishing 58 nm North East of Kuala

Kemaman, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be fishing inside the

country’s EEZ without a valid permit. The authorities also seized 1000 ltr diesel and

fishing equipments from the vessel. The suspects and the seizure were handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kuala Baram, Malaysia/ 06 May 21. (Poaching)

On 06 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended three foreign

fishermen and seized a foreign fishing boat for engaging in illegal fishing about 36 nm

North West of Kuala Baram, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be

fishing inside the country’s waters without a valid permit. The authorities also seized

6000 ltr of diesel from the boat. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off North Natuna, Indonesia/ 06 May 21. (Poaching)

On 06 May 21, it was repoted that Indonesian authorities apprehended two Vietnamese vessels in North Natuna

waters, Indonesia. The fishermen and the seized vessels, which were reportedly poaching sea cucumbers, were

handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Nosy Be, Madagascar/ 06 May 21. (Poaching)

On 06 May 21, it was reported that the Madagascar authorities apprehended nine fishermen (including five foreign

fishermen) and seized two fishing dhows off Nosy Be, Madagascar. Reportedly, the seized vessels were fishing in the

maritime zone of Madagascar without authorisation. The authorities also seized 300 kg of fish catch from them. The

suspects and the seized boats was handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Mahe, Seychelles/ 07 May 21. (Poaching) On 07 May 21, it was reported that the Seychelles Coasted Guard officials seized two dhows for engaging in illegal

fishing about 180 nm North West of Mahe, Seychelles. Reportedly, the vessels were suspected to be fishing inside

the country’s waters without a valid permit. The seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

24

• IUU Fishing/ Off Langkawi, Malaysia/ 08 May21. (Local)

On 08 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 10 fishermen

(including eight foreign fishermen) and seized two class C fishing vessels for engaging in

illegal fishing off Langkawi, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be

fishing in a prohibited area. The suspects and seized boats were handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Pulau Sembilan, Malaysia/ 08 May 21. (Local) On 08 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended four foreign

fishermen from a class B1 fishing vessel for engaging in illegal fishing about 1.9 nm South

West of Pulau Sembilan, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be

fishing in a prohibited area and violating the legal requirements of license. Additionally,

the foreign fishermen were operating without valid documents. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to

the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Belawan, Indonesia/ 09 May 21. (Poaching)

On 09 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended eight foreign fishermen and seized two

foreign flagged fishing boats for engaging in illegal fishing off Belawan, Indonesia. Reportedly, the fishermen were

observed to be fishing inside the country’s waters without a valid permit. The suspects and seized boats were handed

over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Dulang, Malaysia/ 10 May 21. (Local)

On 10 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended two fishermen

from a fishing boat for engaging in illegal fishing about 0.4 nm of Dulang, Malaysia.

Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be fishing using illegal fishing gears. The

authorities also seized 20 sets of dragon bubu nets (local fishing nets) and 10 kg of fish catch

from the vessel. The suspects and the seized boat were handed over to the local authorities

for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Pattani, Thailand/ 14 May 21. (Local)

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Thailand authorities seized 84 illegal traps off

Pattani, Thailand. The seized nets were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation. The owner of the traps was not reported.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Labuan, Malaysia/ 14 May 21. (Poaching)

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 16 foreign fishermen from a foreign

flagged fishing vessel for engaging in illegal fishing about 24 nm North West of Labuan, Malaysia. Reportedly, the

➢ Comment. As per open-source reports, since Jan 2021, the Indonesian authorities have apprehended 94 vessels consisting of 70 local fishing vessels violating legal provisions and 24 foreign fishing vessels engaged in illegal fishing.

25

foreign fishermen were observed to be fishing inside the country’s waters without a valid permit. The suspects and

seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Pulau Jarak, Malaysia/ 14 May 21. (Local) On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended four foreign fishermen from a local

fishing boat for engaging in illegal fishing about 7.7 nm North East of Pulau Jarak, Malaysia. Reportedly, the

fishermen were observed to be fishing in a prohibited area and using illegal fishing gears. The authorities also seized

300 kg of fish catch from them. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Seychelles/ 14 May 21. (Poaching)

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Seychelles authorities seized eight foreign fishing vessels off Seychelles.

Reportedly, the fishermen were fishing inside the country’s EEZ without a valid permit. The seized boats were

handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Langkawi, Malaysia/ 15 May 21. (Local) On 15 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended nine foreign

fishermen from two local Class C fishing vessels for engaging in illegal fishing off Langkawi,

Malaysia. Reportedly, the boats were suspected to be fishing outside the permitted area and

did not possess valid work permits from the Director of Fisheries. The fishermen and the

seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Pantai Tanjung Resang, Malaysia/ 16 May 21. (Local) On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended five fishermen from a local fishing boat

for engaging in illegal fishing about 9.8 nm off Pantai Tanjung Resang, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were

observed to be violating legal conditions of the fishing license. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Pulau Kendi, Malaysia/ 16 May 21. (Poaching)

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended four fishermen

from a foreign fishing vessel for engaging in illegal fishing about 24.8 nm South West of Pulau

Kendi, Malaysia. Reportedly, the suspects were fishing inside the country’s waters without a

valid permit. The fishermen and the seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for

further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Natuna Islands, Indonesia/ 16 May 21. (Poaching)

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended six foreign fishermen from a foreign

fishing vessel BD 93681 TS for engaging in illegal fishing off Natuna Islands, Indonesia. Reportedly, the suspects

were fishing inside the country’s waters without a valid permit. The authorities also seized 300 kg of fish catch from

them. The fishermen and the seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

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• IUU Fishing/ Off Natuna Islands, Indonesia/ 16 May 21. (Poaching)

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended 36 fishermen from six foreign fishing

vessels for engaging in illegal fishing off Natuna Islands, Indonesia. Reportedly, the fishermen were observed to

fishing in the country’s waters without valid documents. The suspects and seized boats were handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Beruwala, Sri Lanka/ 17 May 21. (Local)

On 17 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Coast Guard apprehended six fishermen and seized 55 kg shark

fins from a fishing vessel at Beruwala, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the fishermen harvested the shark fins illegally. The

suspects and the seizure were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kuala Niah, Malaysia/ 17 May 21. (Poaching)

On 17 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 13 foreign fishermen from two foreign

fishing vessels for engaging in illegal fishing off Kuala Niah, Malaysia. Reportedly, the suspects were observed to be

fishing inside the country’s waters without a valid permit. The authorities also seized 8000 ltr of diesel and 500 kg of

fish catch from them. The fishermen and the seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Pulau Kendi, Malaysia/ 18 May 21. (Local)

On 18 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 12 foreign

fishermen from three local fishing boats for engaging in illegal fishing about 19 nm South

West of Pulau Kendi, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were operating in the area

without having any valid work permit from the Director General of Fisheries. The suspects

and seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kuala Niah, Malaysia/ 18 May 21. (Poaching)

On 18 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian Authorities apprehended six foreign fishermen from a foreign

fishing boat for engaging in illegal fishing about 32 nm off Kuala Niah, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were

observed to be fishing in the country’s waters without any valid permit. The suspects and seized boat were handed

over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kuala Niah, Malaysia/ 18 May 21. (Local)

On 18 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian Authorities apprehended seven foreign

fishermen from a local fishing boat for engaging in illegal fishing about 38 nm off Kuala

Niah, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were operating in the area without having any

valid work permit and five of them did not have valid passports. The suspects and seized

boat were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

27

• IUU Fishing/ Off Indramayu, Indonesia/ 19 May 21. (Local)

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended six fishermen and seized two fishing

boats off Indramayu, Indonesia. Reportedly, the fishermen were engaged illegal fishing using explosives. The

authorities also seized fishing explosives and illegal fishing gears from the boats. The suspects and seized boats were

handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Sorong, Indonesia/ 19 May 21. (Local)

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended four fishermen and seized a fishing boat

for engaging in illegal fishing off Sorong, Indonesia. Reportedly, the fishermen were observed to be fishing illegally

using fish bombs. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

Marine Manager Portal by Global Fishing Watch

➢ Marine protected areas are an essential tool in the recovery and protection of our ocean and the essential services it provides. They help sustain biodiversity in the face of rising water temperatures and ocean acidification and help create safe havens for fish populations to replenish. But management is often hampered by inadequate information to support decision-making. ➢ To help address this, Global Fishing Watch and Dona Bertarelli have partnered to develop Global Fishing

Watch Marine Manager, a new technology portal that will help improve insight into marine protected areas. Dona Bertarelli’s vision in creating Global Fishing Watch Marine Manager was to ensure robust and science-based management to fully realize the vital contribution of protected areas, and with time, monitor the quality, efficiency and impact of those protections on the long term. ➢ The portal empowers managers to rapidly collate and analyze scientific data integral to the governance of marine protected areas and other area-based conservation measures. Global Fishing Watch Marine Manager is an innovative, open-access technology portal. It provides dynamic and interactive data on ocean conditions, biology and human-use activity in near real-time to support marine spatial planning, marine protected area design and management, and scientific research. The portal can be accessed on the following link https://globalfishingwatch.org/marine-manager-portal/

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• IUU Fishing/ Off Mullaitivu, Sri Lanka/ 20 May 21. (Local)

On 20 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended four local fishermen from two fishing boats

for engaging in illegal fishing off Mullaitivu, Sri Lanka. The suspects and seized boats were handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Tok Bali, Malaysia/ 22 May 21. (Poaching)

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 12 fishermen from two foreign fishing

vessels for engaging in illegal fishing off Tok Bali, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be fishing

inside the EEZ, without valid permits. The authorities also seized 1.3 tonnes of fish catch, 7300 ltr of diesel and

fishing nets from the boats. The suspects and seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Sungai Belukang, Malaysia/ 22 May 21. (Local)

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian Authorities apprehended two fishermen

from a class B1 local fishing vessel for engaging in illegal fishing about 5.4 nm North West

of Sungai Belukang, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be fishing in a

prohibited area. The authorities also seized 30 kg of mixed fish catch and trawling nets

from them. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for

further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Seychelles/ 22 May 21. (Poaching)

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Seychelles authorities apprehended 22 foreign fishermen from two dhows

for engaging in illegal fishing off Seychelles. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be fishing inside the

country’s EEZ without a valid permit. The suspects and seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for

further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kudat, Malaysia/ 24 May 21. (Poaching)

On 24 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 15 fishermen from two foreign fishing

vessels off Kudat, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to be fishing inside the country’s waters

without a valid permit and did not possess valid identification documents. The authorities also seized fish catch and

fishing gears from the boats. The suspects and seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Muscat, Oman/ 26 May 21. (Local)

On 26 May 21, it was reported that the Oman Authorities seized shrimps off Muscat,

Oman. Reportedly, there is ban on hunting, trading, and dealing of shrimps from

beginning of December till the end of August. The seizure was handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation.

➢ Comment. Omani law prohibits hunting, trading, and dealing in Omani shrimp starting from the beginning of December till the end of August next year.

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• IUU Fishing/ Off Tanjung Po, Malaysia/ 26 May 21. (Poaching)

On 26 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended six fishermen from a foreign fishing boat

about 100 nm of Tanjung Po, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were fishing inside the country’s EEZ without a

valid permit. The authorities also seized fish catching equipment, 7000 ltr diesel and about a metric ton of mixed

fish catch from the boat. The suspects and seized boat were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

Improving Economic Efficiency of the Fishery Industry-NYC

➢ NYK (Nippon Yusen Kaisha) – a Japanese Shipping Company, has started to share certain ship operation data with the Japan Fisheries Information Service Center (JAFIC) through IoS Open Platform (Internet of Ships Open Platform) a ship IoT data-sharing platform promoted by Ship Data Center Co. Ltd. (ShipDC). This initiative is the first time that shipping industry data has been shared with other industries through-IoS-OP. NYK is an original core member of the IoS-OP Consortium, which was established in May 18. Through its SIMS (Ship Information Management System) ship performance monitoring system, NYK collects data on the operation of about 200 SIMS-equipped ships and has been actively sharing that data through IoS-OP. This aids improvements in safety and economic efficiency in ship operation and design by utilizing actual sea area data that transcends the boundaries of companies, and addresses social issues through the data-sharing scheme provided by IoS-OP. ➢ The data shared with JAFIC is seawater temperature information. Seawater is mainly used for cooling engine-related equipment on board the ship, and it is possible to constantly measure the water temperature through a sensor installed near the intake of the cooling seawater. Sharing this seawater temperature information not only addresses limited sea-area data collection by research vessels and fishing vessels but also helps to efficiently form fishing grounds, improve the accuracy of forecasting, and grasp the current sea state through JAFIC bulletins and short- to medium-term forecasts. ➢ In the future, NYK’s contribution is expected to contribute to the reduction of GHG emissions by the fishery industry and enhance its economic efficiency by helping to improve catches and reduce fuel cost. The full article can be accessed on the following link: https://www.nyk.com/english/news/2021/20210430_01.html

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• IUU Fishing/ Off Trou D’eau Douce, Mauritius/ 27 May 21. (Local)

On 27 May 21, it was reported that the Mauritian authorities apprehended two suspects for engaging in illegal

fishing off Trou D’eau Douce, Mauritius. Reportedly, the fishermen did not have any permits to fish in the lagoon

area. They were also reported to be using prohibited gears for fishing. The suspects were handed over to the local

authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Kuala Kemana, Malaysia/ 28 May 21. (Poaching)

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 25 fishermen from two foreign fishing

vessels about 87 nm Northwest of Kuala Kemana, Sarawak, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were suspected to

be fishing inside the country’s waters without valid permits. The authorities also seized fishing equipment, diesel

supply of approx 10,000 ltr and mixed fish catch about 10,000 kg. The estimated worth of seizure was reported to be

about USD 485,370. The suspects and seized boats were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Terengganu, Malaysia/ 28 May 21. (Poaching)

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 24 foreign fishermen and seized three

foreign fishing vessels about 35 nm Northeast of Terengganu, Malaysia. Reportedly, the fishermen were fishing

inside the country’s waters without valid permits. The authorities also seized 1500 ltr diesel and equipment

containing squid. The estimated worth of seizure was reported to be about USD 580,620. The suspects and seized

boats were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off North Sulawesi, Indonesia/ 28 May 21. (Poaching)

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Indonesian authorities apprehended 27 fishermen from two foreign fishing

vessels GENEVIEVE (purse seine) and GIE 2 (pump boat) off North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Reportedly, the fishermen

were fishing inside the country’s waters with illegal fishing gears and without valid permits. The suspects and seized

boats were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• IUU Fishing/ Off Pangkor, Malaysia/ 31 May 21. (Local)

On 31 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended two fishermen from a class B local

fishing boat about 2.4 nm North-West of Pangkor, Malaysia. Reportedly, fishermen were fishing using the banned

trawl technique. The authorities also recovered 50 kg fish catch from the boat. The suspects and seized boat were

handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

Bangladesh Imposed ban on fishing off the country's coast to boost depleted fish stocks ➢ The Bangladesh government's two-month ban on fishing off the country's coast to boost depleted fish stocks started on 20 May 21. The 65-day ban, lasting from 20 May 21 until 23 Jul 21 is timed to occur with the breeding season of fishes. ➢ It was reported that the government-imposed ban on large engine-driven boats will be continued for 65 days while for smaller boats, the restriction will last only for 22 days. Source: https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/trade/ban-on-fishing-in-bay-of-bengal-begins-1621569164

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IRREGULAR HUMAN MIGRATION

68 IHM incidents were recorded by the Centre in May 21, a 18% decrease from the 83 incidents recorded in Apr 21. About 75% of the recorded incidents occurred in the Mediterranean region. Six incidents were reported off Mayotte and Sri Lanka each, two off Malaysia, one each off Madagascar, Malta, Oman and Vietnam. Crossings off Mayotte – The Centre monitored a 40% decrease in the recorded incidents of migrant crossings off Mayotte in May 21, as compared to Apr 21. The incidents reported off Mayotte involved detaining of traditional local boats “kwassa-kwassa” along with the suspected smugglers and irregular migrants. Mediterranean – The Centre monitored 51 migrant crossings (both attempted & successful) in the region. Incidents in May 21 were monitored off Lebanon, Libya, Malta, Tunisia and Turkey and a decrease by 15% was observed as compared to Apr 21. The restrictions on travel imposed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact is likely to be an additional influencing factor in such illegal crossings.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Canakkale, Turkey/ 01 May 21.

On 01 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 29 irregular

migrants from a sailboat off the coast of Canakkale, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities

sighted the distressed boat in the local waters. In addition, the officials apprehended two

smugglers in connection to this incident. The rescued migrants and apprehended

smugglers were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward

legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Zawiyah, Libya/ 02 May 21.

On 02 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan Coast Guard rescued 12 irregular migrants from a capsized rubber

dinghy off Zawiyah, Libya. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores.

Reportedly, 11 other migrants who were onboard lost their lives in the incident. The rescued migrants were

transferred back to the Libyan shores.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mannar, Sri Lanka/ 04 Apr 21.

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 86 irregular migrants

from 11 foreign fishing vessels off South of Mannar, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the migrants

attempted to enter the country’s waters without a legal procedure. The suspects and the

seized boats were handed over to local authorities for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Balikesir, Turkey/ 04 May 21.

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 39 irregular migrants

from an inflatable boat off the coast of Balikesir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted

the stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were shifted ashore and

transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Lebanon/ 04 May 21.

On 04 May 21, it was reported that the Lebanese authorities foiled an attempt to smuggle 51 irregular migrants from

a boat off Lebanon. Reportedly, the migrants attempted to reach Cyprus via sea route. The migrants comprised 39

men, five women and seven minors who were handed over to local authorities for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Balikesir, Turkey/ 05 May 21.

On 05 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 30 irregular migrants

from an inflatable boat off the coast of Balikesir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted

the distressed boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were shifted ashore and

transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

SUMMARY OF IRREGULAR HUMAN MIGRATION INCIDENTS

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 06 May 21.

On 06 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued eight irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 07 May 21.

On 07 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 28 irregular migrants from an inflatable

boat off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the boat stranded in the local waters. The

rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Canakkale, Turkey/ 07 May 21.

On 07 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 53 irregular migrants from an inflatable

boat off the coast of Canakkale, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the boat stranded in the local waters.

The rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal

proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Song Doc, Vietnam/ 08 May 21.

On 08 May 21, it was reported that the Vietnamese authorities apprehended two irregular migrants from fishing

vessel BTH 97969 TS off Song Doc, Vietnam. Reportedly, the migrants went to a foreign country for work and were

Review on Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling by UNODC

➢ The UNODC report highlights the main achievements of UNODC’s three global programmes against

trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants (GLOT59, GLOT92 and GLO.ACT). ➢ This also marks the 20th anniversary of the UN Protocols on Trafficking in Persons and against Migrant

Smuggling. Full report can be accessed on the following link: https://www.unodc.org/documents/human-trafficking/HTMSS_Annual_Report_2020.pdf

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returning via sea route without having legal documents. The apprehended migrants were transferred to the local

authorities for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Libya/ 09 May 21.

On 09 May 21, it was reported that a boat carrying 45 irregular migrants onboard capsized off the coast of Libya.

Reportedly, the migrants attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores when their vessel capsized.

It was reported that the fishermen transiting through the area were able to rescue 40 migrants and shifted them

ashore. Five migrants reportedly lost their lives in the incident.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Tripoli, Lebanon/ 10 May 21.

On 10 May 21, it was reported that the Lebanese authorities apprehended 60 irregular migrants from a vessel 10 nm

off Tripoli, Lebanon. Reportedly, the migrants attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The

apprehended migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to local authorities for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Libya/ 10 May 21.

On 10 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan Coast Guard apprehended 42 irregular migrants off the coast of

Libya. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores when their boat

capsized. Later, the mortal remains of one person were recovered. However, 23 personnel were reported missing in

the incident. The 42 apprehended migrants were transferred back to the Libyan shores.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mayotte/ 10 May 21.

On 10 May 21, it was reported that the Mayotte authorities apprehended 35 irregular migrants and two suspected

smugglers onboard two kwassa-kwassa type boats off Mayotte. The suspects were handed over to local authorities

for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Malta/ 11 May 21.

On 11 May 21, it was reported that the Malta authorities rescued 70 irregular migrants off

the coast of Malta. Reportedly, the migrants attempted to cross the Mediterranean to

reach European shores. The rescued migrants were shifted to the Malta shores.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mannar, Sri Lanka/ 11 May 21.

On 11 May 21, it was reported that Sri Lankan Navy apprehended one local irregular migrant off Mannar, Sri Lanka.

Reportedly, the migrant arrived from a foreign country via sea-route without any legal document. The authorities

also apprehended four suspects in connection with the incident. The apprehended migrant and the suspects were

handed over to local authorities for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 12 May 21.

On 12 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 42 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the migrants raised a distress alert after the boat encountered mechanical

failure and was stranded at sea. The rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration

office for onward legal proceedings.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Toamasina, Madagascar/ 12 May 21.

On 12 May 21, it was reported that the Madagascar authorities discovered a Tanzanian national onboard a Bahamas

flagged cargo ship MV TARIFA at Toamasina Port. Madagascar. However, regarding the rules in force, the Captain

of the vessel physically presented the stowaway to the consignee and kept him onboard for the return journey.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 13 May 21.

On 13 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 14 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the distressed boat in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mugla, Turkey/ 13 May 21.

On 13 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 11 irregular migrants

from an inflatable boat off the coast of Mugla, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted

the distressed boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were shifted ashore and

transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Tunisia/ 13 May 21.

On 13 May 21, it was reported that the Tunisian Coast Guard apprehended 56 irregular migrants from three boats

off Tunisia. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The

apprehended migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal

proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Samindugama, Sri Lanka/ 13 May 21.

On 13 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan authorities apprehended 14 irregular

migrants from a house off Samindugama, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the migrants attempted

to migrate to a foreign country illegally by sea route. The authorities also apprehended

house owner for providing lodging to the migrants. The apprehended migrants and house

owner were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Jaffna, Sri Lanka/ 13 May 21.

On 13 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan authorities apprehended four irregular migrants off Jaffna, Sri

Lanka. Reportedly, the suspects entered the country illegally via sea route with the help of fishermen. The

apprehended migrants were handed over to local authorities for further legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Samindugama, Sri Lanka/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan authorities apprehended 15 irregular

migrants off Samindugama, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the migrants attempted to migrate to a

foreign country illegally by sea route. The apprehended migrants were handed over to the

local authorities for further investigation.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Libya/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan Coast Guard apprehended over 150 irregular migrants off the coast of

Libya. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The apprehended

migrants were transferred back to the Libyan shores.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Canakkale, Turkey/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 55 irregular migrants

from an inflatable boat off the Canakkale, Turkey. Reportedly, the migrants raised a

distress alert after the boat encountered mechanical failure and was stranded at sea. The

rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for

onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 15 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Aydin, Turkey/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 23 irregular migrants from two lifeboats off the

coast of Aydin, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the distressed boats in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Libya/ 15 May 21.

On 15 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan Coast Guard rescued 200 irregular migrants off the coast of Libya.

The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The rescued migrants were

transferred back to the Libyan shores.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mayotte/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Mayotte authorities apprehended 13 irregular migrants and one suspected

smuggler onboard one kwassa-kwassa type boat off Mayotte. The suspects were handed over to local authorities for

further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mediterranean Sea/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the German ship SEA-EYE 4 rescued 170 irregular migrants from wooden boats

in Mediterranean Sea. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The

rescued migrants were shifted onboard the rescued ship and provided with the medical assistance.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 32 irregular migrants from two lifeboats off the

coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boats in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Canakkale, Turkey/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 25 irregular migrants

from an inflatable boat off Canakkale, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the

stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred

to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Balikesir, Turkey/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 28 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Balikesir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The

rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Tripoli, Libya/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan authorities apprehended 650 irregular migrants from four rubber

boats off the coast of Tripoli, Libya. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach

European shores. The apprehended migrants were transferred back to the Libyan shores.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Chilaw, Sri Lanka/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Coast Guard apprehended 30 irregular migrants in Chilaw, Sri

Lanka. Reportedly, the migrants attempted to leave the country illegally via sea-route. The suspects were handed

over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Sfax, Tunisia/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that 33 irregular migrants were rescued by workers from an oil platform off Sfax,

Tunisia. Reportedly, the migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores when

their vessel capsized. It was reported that 57 migrants lost their lives in the incident. The rescued migrants were

transferred back to the shore.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mayotte/ 18 May 21.

On 18 May 21, it was reported that the Mayotte authorities apprehended 58 irregular migrants and four suspected

smugglers onboard four kwassa-kwassa type boats off Mayotte. The suspects were handed over to local authorities

for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Oman/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Oman Coast Guard apprehended eight irregular migrants from three boats

while attempting to enter Oman illegally. The suspects were handed over to the local authorities for further action.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Libya Coast/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan Coast Guard rescued 88 irregular migrants from a boat off the Coast

of Libya. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The rescued

migrants were transferred to the Libyan shore.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Canakkale, Turkey/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 40 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Canakkale, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The

rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration / Off Mugla, Turkey/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 25 irregular

migrants from two lifeboats off the coast of Mugla, Turkey. Reportedly, the

authorities sighted the distressed boats in the local waters. The rescued migrants were

shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal

proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mayotte/ 20 May 21.

On 20 May 21, it was reported that the Mayotte authorities apprehended 26 irregular migrants and one suspected

smuggler onboard one kwassa-kwassa type boat off Mayotte. The suspects were handed over to local authorities for

further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration / Off Izmir, Turkey/ 20 May 21.

On 20 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued eight irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Akkar, Lebanon/ 20 May 21.

On 20 May 21, it was reported that the Lebanon authorities apprehended 125 irregular migrants from a boat off

Akkar, Lebanon. The apprehended migrants were handed over to local authorities for further investigations.

• Irregular Human Migration / Off Mediterranean Sea/ 20 May 21.

On 20 May 21, it was reported that the Tunisian Coast Guard rescued 77 irregular migrants after their boat capsized

due to heavy weather in the Mediterranean Sea. The migrants had boarded a boat from Tripoli on 17 May 21,

headed for Europe. The rescued migrants were transferred back ashore in Tunisia. 13 migrants were still reported to

be missing.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mayotte/ 21 May 21.

On 21 May 21, it was reported that the Mayotte authorities apprehended 13 irregular migrants and three suspected

smugglers onboard two kwassa-kwassa type boats off Mayotte. The suspects were handed over to local authorities

for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mugla, Turkey/ 21 May 21.

On 21 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 10 irregular migrants from a lifeboat off the

coast of Mugla, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Balikesir, Turkey/ 21 May 21.

On 21 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 29 irregular migrants from an island off the

coast of Balikesir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the migrants stranded on the island. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Canakkale, Turkey/ 22 May 21.

On 22 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 46 irregular

migrants from an inflatable boat off the Canakkale, Turkey. Reportedly, the

authorities sighted the boat stranded in the local waters. The rescued migrants were

shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal

proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Antalya, Turkey/ 23 May 21.

On 23 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued two irregular

migrants from an Island off the coast of Antalya, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities

sighted the migrants stranded on the Island. The rescued migrants were shifted ashore

and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 23 May 21.

On 23 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 23 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the distressed boat in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Zarzis, Tunisia/ 24 May 21.

On 24 May 21, it was reported that the Tunisian Naval patrol boat rescued 100 irregular migrants from an inflatable

vessel off Zarzis, Tunisia. Reportedly, the migrants attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores,

however, their boat encountered an engine failure. The rescued migrants were transferred ashore in Tunisia.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mayotte/ 25 May 21.

On 25 May 21, it was reported that the Mayotte authorities apprehended eight irregular migrants and one suspected

smuggler onboard a kwassa-kwassa type boat off Mayotte. The suspects were handed over to local authorities for

further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mugla, Turkey/ 25 May 21.

On 25 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 27 irregular

migrants from an inflatable boat off the coast of Mugla, Turkey. Reportedly, the

authorities sighted the distressed boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were

shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal

proceedings.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Selangor, Malaysia/ 25 May 21.

On 25 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 26 irregular migrants from the beach

area of Selangor, Malaysia. Reportedly, the migrants entered the country illegally via the sea-route. The

apprehended migrants were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mugla, Turkey/ 26 May 21.

On 26 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued eight irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Mugla, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the boat stranded in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 26 May 21.

On 26 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 21 irregular

migrants from an inflatable boat off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the

authorities sighted the distressed boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were

Missing Migrants Project data by IOM

➢ Missing Migrants Project counts migrants who have died at the external borders of states, or in the process of migration towards an international destination, regardless of their legal status. The Project records only those migrants who die during their journey to a country different from their country of residence.

➢ Missing Migrants Project data include the deaths of migrants who die in transportation accidents, shipwrecks, violent attacks, or due to medical complications during their journeys. It also includes the number of corpses found at border crossings that are categorized as the bodies of migrants, based on belongings and/or the characteristics of the death.

➢ Missing Migrants Project data are estimates from International Organisation of Migration (IOM), national authorities and media sources. The Missing Migrants Project data by IOM can be accessed on the following link: https://missingmigrants.iom.int

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shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 27 May 21.

On 27 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 24 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the boat stranded in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 27 May 21.

On 27 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 10 irregular

migrants from an inflatable boat off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the

authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were

shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal

proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Mugla, Turkey/ 28 May 21.

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 63 irregular migrants and two suspected

migrant smugglers from a sailing boat off the coast of Mugla, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the

distressed boat in the local waters. The rescued migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration

office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 28 May 21.

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 32 irregular migrants from a lifeboat off the

coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the stranded boat in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Libya Coast/ 28 May 21.

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan Coast Guard rescued 187 irregular migrants off the coast of Libya.

The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The rescued migrants were

transferred back to the Libyan shores.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Tunisia/ 28 May 21.

On 28 May 21, it was reported that the Tunisian Coast Guard units apprehended 262 irregular migrants off Sfax,

Tunisia. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to reach European shores. The apprehended

migrants were transferred ashore in Tunisia.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Tawau, Malaysia/ 29 May 21.

On 29 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities apprehended 21 irregular migrants (including 11

women and three children) off Tawau, Malaysia. Reportedly, the migrants entered illegally into the country without

valid documents via sea route. The apprehended migrants were handed over to the local authorities for further

investigation.

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• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 30 May 21.

On 30 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 13 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the boat stranded in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Izmir, Turkey/ 31 May 21.

On 31 May 21, it was reported that the Turkish Coast Guard rescued 29 irregular migrants from an inflatable boat

off the coast of Izmir, Turkey. Reportedly, the authorities sighted the boat stranded in the local waters. The rescued

migrants were shifted ashore and transferred to provincial migration office for onward legal proceedings.

• Irregular Human Migration/ Off Tripoli, Libya/ 31 May 21.

On 31 May 21, it was reported that the Libyan Coast Guard apprehended 274 irregular migrants (including 19

women and three children) off Tripoli, Libya. The migrants reportedly attempted to cross the Mediterranean to

reach European shores. The apprehended migrants were transferred back to the Libyan shores.

New UNODC Observatory: Research to help understand Migrant Smuggling

➢ At an event launched in May 21, during the 30th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly announced the first-ever Observatory on Smuggling of Migrants. ➢ The Observatory answers questions such as: Who uses smugglers? Which routes do they take? How is it paid for? Who are the smugglers? It also analyses the abuses people suffer in the context of migrant smuggling, either at the hands of smugglers or other actors, and examines the effectiveness of counter-smuggling activities in preventing the crime and protecting the rights of smuggled people. ➢ Research data will be uploaded on the website in phases, providing real-time information on smuggling of migrants along key smuggling routes. This first phase presents an analysis of the inter-connected West African, North African and Central Mediterranean routes. The full article can be accessed on:https://www.unodc.org/unodc/frontpage/2021/May/new-unodc-observatory_-research-to-help-understand-migrant-smuggling.html

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85 maritime incidents were recorded by the Centre for the month of May 21, about 7% increase as compared to Apr 21. Majority of the incidents involved SAR followed by capsizing of vessels, followed by medevac by coastal authorities. The Centre recorded three collisions this month, about 66% decrease from Apr 21. No significant oil-spills were reported in any of the collisions recorded. Aground – The Centre recorded seven incidents of vessels running aground. Two of these were reported at different locations in the waters of Arabian Sea, one each off Indonesia, Oman, Philippines, Suez Canal and Vietnam. Capsize and Sinking of Vessels – 13 incidents of capsizing and six incidents of vessels sinking at sea were recorded by the Centre in May 21. This is similar to Apr 21 (19 incidents). SAR Operations – 14 SAR and 12 MEDEVAC operations undertaken by various maritime agencies were monitored during the month of May 21. The combined total of SAR and MEDEEVAC, saw about 85% increase from Apr 21. A total of 12 maritime incidents recorded were associated with Cyclone Tauktae. A separate summary of the incidents due to Cyclones Tauktae (Arabian Sea) and Yaas (Bay of Bengal) is placed in the Natural Events section in the latter part of this report.

MARITIME INCIDENTS

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• Aground/ Off Surigao City, Philippies/ 01 May 21.

On 01 May 21, it was reported that a fishing boat NOBERT-2 with 36 personnel onboard ran

aground off Surigao City, Philippines. Reportedly, the vessel encountered heavy currents

prevailing in the area and eventually ran aground. Subsequently, the authorities approached

the distressed vessel, rescued the stranded personnel and shifted them ashore.

• MEDEVAC/ Off Vietnam/ 02 May 21.

On 02 May 21, it was reported that Vietnamese authorities evacuated two fishermen from

fishing vessel BL 91567 TS off Vietnam. Reportedly, two fishermen got injured while work

and required urgent medical assistance. Subsequently, the authorities evacuated the patients

and provided the medical assistance.

• MEDEVAC/ Off Gwadar, Pakistan/ 02 May 21.

On 02 May 21, it was reported that Pakistan authorities evacuated a crew from merchant vessel MV MONTPELLIER off Gwadar, Pakistan. Reportedly, the crew was ill and required urgent medical assistance. The

evacuated crew was shifted to a local hospital for further treatment.

• MEDEVAC/ Off Dhofar, Oman/ 02 May 21.

On 02 May 21, it was reported that Oman authorities evacuated a crew from commercial ship off Dhofar, Oman.

Reportedly, the crew was seriously ill and required urgent medical assistance. The evacuated crew was shifted to a

local hospital for further treatment.

• Capsize/ Off Kuala Kedah, Malaysia/ 03 May 21.

On 03 May 21, it was reported that a fishing boat with three personnel onboard capsized about 3.5 nm west of Kuala

Kedah, Malaysia. Reportedly, the boat developed a hull breach after collision with an unidentified object and

eventually capsized. Subsequently, the coastal authorities approached the distress location and rescued the stranded

personnel.

• Fire/ Off Weld Quay, Malaysia/ 03 May 21.

On 03 May 21, it was reported that a vessel loaded with diesel caught fire off Weld Quay,

Malaysia. Reportedly, the coastal authorities approached the distressed vessel and brought

the fire under control. Two personnel were reported to be injured in the incident who

were rescued by the authorities. The cause of fire was not reported.

• Sunk/ Off Sarawak, Malaysia/ 04 May 21.

On 04 May 21, it was reported that a Malaysian offshore rig NAGA-7 sank off Sarawak,

Malaysia. Reportedly, one of legs of three-legged platform broke through hard sea floor into

mud below and eventually sank. It was reported that the stranded 101 crew members

onboard were able to evacuate themselves into three lifeboats.

SUMMARY OF MARITIME INCIDENTS

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• Capsize/ Off Pantai Remis, Malaysia/ 04 May 21.

On 04 May 21, it was reported that a class B fishing boat with two crew members (Myanmar nationals) onboard

capsized off Pantai Remis, Malaysia. Reportedly, the boat encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area and

eventually capsized. A search is underway to locate the missing crew members.

• Man Overboard/ Off Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand/ 05 May 21.

On 05 May 21, it was reported that two crew members fell overboard from a fishing vessel NAVI KRIANGKRAI 9

while transiting off Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand. A search operation was initiated by the coastal authorities to

locate the missing crew.

• Capsize/ Off Al Batinah South, Oman/ 05 May 21.

On 05 May 21, it was reported that two local fishing boats with three crew members onboard capsized off Al

Batinah South Governorate, Oman. Reportedly, the boats encountered the heavy currents prevailing in the area and

eventually sank. Subsequently, the coastal authorities approached the distress location, rescued the stranded

personnel and shifted them ashore.

• SAR/ Off Kuala Perlis, Malaysia/ 05 May 21.

On 05 May 21, it was reported that the Malaysian authorities rescued two fishermen

from a fishing vessel about 2.8 nm Southwest of Kuala Perlis, Malaysia. Reportedly, the

crew of the vessel raised a distress alert after their boat ran out of fuel and was adrift in

the area. Subsequently, the authorities approached the distress vessel, provided necessary

assistance and escorted the vessel ashore.

• Capsize/ Off Pattaya, Thailand/ 06 May 21.

On 06 May 21, it was reported that a local fishing boat with four crew members onboard capsized off Pattaya Coast,

Thailand. Reportedly, the boat encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area and eventually capsized. It was

reported that two personnel were rescued by another fishing vessel transiting through the area. However, a search

by the local authorities was reportedly initiated to locate the other missing crew members.

• MEDEVAC/ Off Dumai, Indonesia/ 06 May 21.

On 06 May 21, it was reported that Indonesian authorities evacuated the Master of India flagged tanker

ARK PROGRESS off Dumai, Indonesia. The vessel reportedly arrived from New Mangalore, India with the cargo of

palm oil. Reportedly, the crew required urgent medical assistance after having breath difficulties and fever. Later,

the patient was transferred to a local hospital for further treatment.

• Collision/ Off Lagoi, Indonesia/ 06 May 21.

On 06 May 21, it was reported that a Singapore flagged container ship SINAR SOLO

collided with a Liberia flagged bulk carrier TAHO AUSTRALIA off Lagoi, Indonesia.

Update The mortal remains of two missing crew members were recovered by the authorities on 11 May 21.

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Reportedly, SINAR SOHO sustained damages in cargo deck area and several other containers were also damaged.

Bulk carrier TAHO AUSTRALIA sustained minor damages and continued her voyage to her next port of call. The

cause of collision was not reported.

• Man Overboard/ Off South China Sea/ 06 May 21.

On 06 May 21, it was reported that a crew (Russian national) fell overboard from a Singapore flagged tanker ST KATHARINEN off South China Sea. The vessel was enroute from Russia to Singapore. Reportedly, a SAR operation

was initiated by the tanker’s search team to locate the missing crew. It was reported that after being adrift for eight

hours, the crew was spotted and rescued by the Indonesian Navy and returned to his ship.

• Aground/ Off Batu Licin, Indonesia/ 06 May 21.

On 06 May 21, it was reported that an Indonesia flagged passenger vessel KMP JEMBATAN MUSI II with 23

passengers onboard ran aground off Batu Licin, Indonesia. Reportedly, the encountered heavy weather prevailing in

the area and eventually ran aground. Subsequently, the coastal authorities approached the distressed vessel and

rescued the stranded personnel. A salvage operation was reported underway to refloat the vessel.

• Man Overboard/ Off Ranong Province, Thailand/ 07 May 21.

On 07 May 21, it was reported that a crew fell overboard from a fishing boat S. CHOK CHITRA and went missing

off Ranong Province, Thailand. A search by the coastal authorities in cooperation with local fishing vessels was

reportedly initiated to locate the missing crew.

• Fire/ Off Thailand/ 07 May 21.

On 07 May 21, it was reported that an anchored foreign fishing vessel with five fishermen onboard caught fire off

Thailand. Reportedly, the vessel encountered fire due explosion of gas tank onboard the vessel and eventually sank.

The local fishermen transiting through the area sighted the distressed vessel who rescued the fishermen and shifted

them ashore for medical assistance.

• SAR/ Off Paluan, Philippines/ 08 May 21.

On 08 May 21, it was reported that a foreign cruise ship MS CHARMING rescued three fishermen from a fishing

boat EDGA off Paluan, Philippines. Reportedly, the boat encountered a mechanical failure and was adrift in the area

since 06 May 21. The cruise ship sighted the distressed boat while transiting the area, rescued the stranded

personnel and assisted them to the shore.

• Collision/ Off Capiz, Philippines/ 08 May 21.

On 08 May 21, it was reported that a fishing boat with three personnel onboard collided with a ship off Capiz,

Philippines. Reportedly, the local fishermen transiting through the area were able to rescue two fishermen. A search

by the coastal authorities was reported to be initiated to locate the missing crew member.

• SAR/ Off Mayotte/ 09 May 21.

On 09 May 21, it was reported that the Mayotte authorities rescued 16 personnel while three drowned and five

went missing from one kwassa-kwassa boat sank off Mayotte. Reportedly, the boat sank due to bad weather

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prevailing in the area. The rescued personnel were shifted ashore and the mortal remains of three drowned

personnel were recovered later.

• SAR/ Off Hutbay, Little Andman, India/ 09 May 21.

On 09 May 21, it was reported that the Indian Coast Guard rescued five crew members

from a fishing boat KALAMMA off Hutbay, Little Andaman, India. Reportedly, the crew

raised a distress call after their boat lost the propulsion due to heavy weather prevailing in

the area and went adrift. Subsequently, the Coast guard officials responded to the distress

call, rescued the stranded personnel and towed the vessel ashore.

• MEDEVAC/ Off Ca Mau Cape, Vietnam/ 09 May 21.

On 09 May 21, it was reported that Vietnamese authorities evacuated a crew from a fishing boat BD 96631 TS off

Ca Mau Cape, Vietnam. Reportedly, the crew had severe stomachache and high fever and required urgent medical

assistance. The evacuated crew was shifted to a local hospital for further treatment.

• Sunk/ Off Cebu, Pilippines/ 10 May 21.

On 10 May 21, it was reported that a fishing vessel with 10 personnel onboard sank off Cebu,

Philippines. Reportedly, the boat was overloaded. The Philippines authorities approached the

distress location, rescued the stranded personnel and shifted them ashore.

• MEDEVAC/ Off Hoang Sa, Vietnam/ 10 May 21.

On 10 May 21, it was reported that Vietnam authorities evacuated Master of a boat off Hoang Sa, Vietnam.

Reportedly, while working on the boat the master suffered severe abdominal pain and required urgent medical

assistance. The evacuated patient was shifted to a local hospital for further treatment.

• MEDEVAC/ Off Stilbaai, South Africa/ 13 May 21.

On 13 May 21, it was reported that South African authorities evacuated a crew from a trawler, about 30 nm of

Stilbaai, South Africa. Reportedly, the crew member reportedly required urgent medical assistance. Later, the

patient was transferred to a local hospital for further treatment.

• SAR/ Off Kannur, India/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that Coast Guard ship VIKRAM rescued three fishermen from a fishing boat

BADHRIYAIN off Kannur, Kerala, India. Reportedly, the boat encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area

due to ongoing cyclone TAUKTAE and was adrift. The Coast Guard ship rescued the stranded personnel onboard

distressed boat and shifted them ashore.

• Capsize/ Off Quezon, Philippines/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that a small boat with six personnel onboard capsized off

Quezon, Philippines. Reportedly, the boat hit a concrete post and eventually capsized. It

was reported that the coastal authorities rescued the stranded crew and shifted them ashore.

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• MEDEVAC/ Off Narathiwat, Thailand/ 14 May 21.

On 14 May 21, it was reported that Thailand authorities evacuated a man from fishing vessel off Narathiwat,

Thailand. Reportedly, the crew member was partially paralysed, had high fever and required urgent medical

assistance. Later, the patient was transferred to a local hospital for further treatment.

• Fire/ Off Natuna Islands, Indonesia/ 15 Apr 21.

On 15 May 21, it was reported that a fishing vessel KM SINAR MAS with 27 crew onboard

caught fire off Natuna Islands, Indonesia. Reportedly, the Indonesian authorities sighted

and approached the distressed vessel and extinguished the fire with the help of another

fishing vessel. Later, the authorities towed the distressed vessel and shifted the rescued

crew ashore for medical treatment.

• Capsize/ Off Davao, Philippines/ 15 May 21.

On 15 May 21, it was reported that a fishing boat with five fishermen onboard capsized off Davao, Philippines.

Reportedly, the fishing vessel encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area and eventually capsized. It was

reported that another vessel transiting through the area sighted the capsized boat, rescued the stranded fishermen

and shifted them ashore.

• Sunk/ Off Mangalore, India/ 15 May 21.

On 15 May 21, it was reported that an India flagged tug vessel ALLIANCE with eight crew onboard sank off

Mangalore, India. Reportedly, the tug encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area due to ongoing cyclone

TAUKTAE, lost its propulsion and eventually sank. A search by coastal authorities was initiated to locate the

missing crew members.

• Man Overboard/ Off New Mangalore, India/ 15 May 21.

On 15 May 21, it was reported that a crew fell overboard from an India flagged container vessel SSL GANGA off

New Mangalore, India. Reportedly, the crew fell overboard due to rough weather caused by cyclone TAUTAKE

prevailing in the area and lost his life. However, the remaining three crew onboard sustained injuries after being hit

by the high waves and were shifted to a local hospital by the authorities.

• SAR/ Off Dimaniyat Islands, Oman/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that Oman authorities rescued eight crewmembers from a boat off Dimaniyat Islands,

Oman. Reportedly, the stranded crew members raised a distress alert after the boat encountered water ingress and

eventually sank. Subsequently, the authorities responded to the distress call, provided necessary assistance and

assisted them ashore.

Update

It was reported on 20 May 21 that three crew survived the incident and mortal remains of two crew members were recovered. However, three crew members are still reported to be missing.

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• Aground/ Off Mangalore, India/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that a tug COROMONDEL SUPPORTER IX with nine

crew onboard ran aground off Mangalore, India. Reportedly, the vessel encountered

heavy weather prevailing in the area due to cyclone TAUKTAE, lost its propulsion and

eventually ran aground. A salvage operation by the coastal authorities was initiated to

rescue the stranded crew and re-float the vessel.

• SAR/ Off Kochi, India/ 16 May 21.

On 16 May 21, it was reported that Coast Guard ship ARYAMAN rescued 12 fishermen from a fishing boat JESUS 35

nm off Kochi, Kerala, India. Reportedly, the boat encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area due to ongoing

cyclone TAUKTAE and was adrift. The Coast Guard ship sighted the distressed boat, rescued the stranded personnel

and towed the boat ashore.

• Missing/ Off Beypore, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that a fishing boat AJMEER SHA with 15 fishermen onboard went missing off

Beypore, Kerala, India. Reportedly, the fishing boat went missing while it went out at sea for fishing on 05 May 21.

• SAR/ Off Goa, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that Coast Guard ship SAMARTH rescued 15 crew

members from a fishing boat MILAD off Goa, India. Reportedly, the crew raised a

distress alert after encountering cyclonic storm TAUKTAE prevailing in the area.

Subsequently, the Coast Guard responded to the distress call, rescued the stranded crew

and towed the vessel ashore.

• SAR/ Off Mumbai, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that the Indian Navy rescued 186 crew members from a

BARGE P-305, which sank off Mumbai, India. There were 261 personnel onboard.

Reportedly, the barge encountered cyclonic storm TAUKTAE prevailing in the area and

eventually sank. Mortal remains of the remaining crew members were recovered by the

authorities later.

• Man Overboard/ Off Pha-Ngan Island, Thailand/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that a crew fell overboard from a fishing boat SIN PARSERT-NAVI 2 about 25 nm off

Pha-Ngan Island, Thailand. A search by the coastal authorities was reportedly initiated to locate the missing crew.

• Aground/ Off Mumbai, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that a barge GAL CONSTRUCTOR with 137 crew

onboard ran aground about 48 nm North off Mumbai, India. Reportedly, the barge

encountered heavy weather due to cyclone TAUKTAE prevailing in the area, lost its

Update On 18 May 21, all nine personnel were rescued in a joint operation conducted by Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

50

propulsion and eventually ran aground. Subsequently, the coastal authorities approached the distressed vessel,

rescued the stranded personnel and shifted them ashore. A salvage operation was initiated to refloat the vessel.

• Mechanical Failure/ Off Pipavav, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that barge SUPPORT STATION-3 with 196 crew onboard experienced mechanical

failure off Pipavav Anchorage, India. Reportedly, the vessel encountered heavy weather due to cyclone TAUKTAE

in the area, lost its anchors and was adrift. Subsequently, two tugs from the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation

(ONGC) tugs approached the vessel, rendered the assistance to the stranded crew and towed the vessel ashore.

• Mechanical Failure/ Off Mumbai, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that a drill ship SAGAR BHUSHAN experienced mechanical failure about 60 nm off

Mumbai, India. Reportedly, the vessel encountered heavy weather due to cyclone TAUKTAE ongoing in the area

and lost all its eight anchors. It was reported that all the crew members onboard the vessel were safe and a tow line

was connected by a Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) tug boat to the stricken vessel. Later, the vessel was towed

to the shore.

• Sunk/ Off Mumbai, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that an anchor handling tug VARAPRADA with 13 crew members onboard, sank off

Mumbai, India. Reportedly, Indian Naval Ship KOLKATA rescued two of the crew from a life raft. However, mortal

remains of other 11 crew members and the wreck were recovered by the authorities later.

• SAR/ Off Mumbai, India/ 17 May 21.

On 17 May 21, it was reported that Indian Coast Guard rescued 45 crewmembers from two oil tankers off Mumbai,

India. Reportedly, the vessels went adrift amid bad weather due to cyclone Tauktae. Propulsion was restored later

and all 45 crew members onboard were reported safe.

• SAR/ Off Veraval, India/ 18 May 21.

On 18 May 21, it was reported that the Coast Guard rescued eight fishermen from a fishing boat off Veraval,

Gujarat, India. Reportedly, the fishing boat encountered heavy weather due to cyclone TAUKTAE prevailing in the

area and went adrift. Subsequently, the Coast Guard rescue team approached the distressed vessel, rescued all the

stranded personnel and shifted them ashore.

• SAR/ Off Vengurla, India/ 18 May 21.

On 18 May 21, it was reported that the Coast Guard aircraft CHETAK rescued two personnel from a light house off

Vengurla, Maharasthra, India. Reportedly, the personnel were stranded on light house due to cyclone TAUKTAE in

the area. Subsequently, Coast Guard aircraft approached the distress location and evacuated the stranded personnel.

• Collision/ Off Zamboanga, Philippines/ 18 May 21.

On 18 May 21, it was reported that a fishing vessel with four fishermen onboard collided with a motor-boat

LOURDES C2 off Zamboanga, Philippines. Reportedly, three fishermen jumped off the boat as the two boats

collided. However, one fisherman reportedly lost his life in the incident. It was reported that fishing vessel was

51

damaged completely as the result of collision. The master of the motor-boat LOURDES C2 was apprehended and

handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Fire/ Off Riau Islands, Indonesia/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that a speedboat with five personnel onboard caught fire off Riau Islands, Indonesia.

Reportedly, the boat caught fire due to a short circuit. The local fishermen in vicinity sighted the distressed boat,

attempted to extinguish fire and informed the coastal authorities. Subsequently, the coastal authorities approached

the distressed boat, evacuated the stranded personnel with the help of locals and shifted them to a local hospital for

medical treatment.

• Fire/ Off Mathiveri, Maldives/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that a speedboat with three personnel onboard caught fire off Mathiveri, Maldives.

Reportedly, the boat fire spread after the speedboat’s fuel tank caught fire. The crew sustained minor injuries,

however, were reported stable later.

• Vessel Detained/ Off Kuala Baram, Malaysia/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that Malaysian authorities detained a tug towing a barge loaded with gravel. The tug

and barge, with four crewmembers onboard, were detained 1.7 nm Northwest of Kuala Baram, Malaysia.

Reportedly, the vessel was operating in the area without valid vessel documents and port clearance. The detained

vessels were handed over to the local authorities for further investigation.

• Aground/ Off Hai Phong, Vietnam/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that Vietnam flagged cargo ship MINH QUANG 03 with nine crew members

onboard ran aground off Hai Phong, Vietnam. The vessel was loaded with 4700 tonnes of coal. Reportedly, the

vessel encountered steering failure, struck a reef, started flooding and eventually ran aground to avoid sinking. The

crew abandoned the ship on a life raft and were rescued later. All crew members were reported to be safe.

• Mechanical Failure/ Malacca Strait/ 19 May 21.

On 19 May 21, it was reported that a Singapore flagged container vessel A DAISEN experienced mechanical failure

in Malacca Strait. Reportedly, the vessel was adrift in the area after experiencing blackout/ shortcut which disabled

its communication systems and AIS. It was reported that the vessel’s AIS transmission was regained on 20 May 21 in

the Malacca Strait.

• Fire/ Off Colombo, Sri Lanka/ 20 May 21.

On 20 May 21, it was reported that a Singapore flagged container ship X-PRESS PEARL caught fire while anchored about 9.5 nm NW of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Reportedly, apart from the 325 metric tonnes of fuel in its tanks, the vessel was loaded

with 1,486 containers carrying about 25 tonnes of hazardous nitric acid. All 25 crew

members onboard the vessel were later evacuated by Sri Lankan authorities. Two

personnel reportedly suffered leg injuries during evacuation and were taken to

hospital for attention. All crew were reported to be in stable condition. There has

been no oil spill reported. Some plastic beads and other material from the vessel were

reported to have washed ashore near the incident location. The joint firefighting

52

efforts by ships and aircraft from India and Sri Lanka were reported to have yielded positive results with increasing

sign of fire being under control. Smoke density was also reported to have reduced. The vessel was reported to have

partially sunk, during attempted towing by salvors.

• Medevac/ Off Pang- Nga Province, Thailand/ 20 May 21.

On 20 May 21, it was reported that Thai authorities evacuated a crew from a fishing boat off Pang-Nga Province,

Thailand. Reportedly, the crewmember had ship rope wrapped and cut his leg while retrieving the fishing nets and

required urgent medical assistance. The evacuated crew was shifted to a local hospital for further treatment.

• SAR/ Off Daman, India/ 20 May 21.

On 20 May 21, it was reported that Indian Coast Guard Ship SAMRAT rescued 10 crewmembers from a tug

SANGITA off Daman, India. Reportedly, the tug was submerged. The evacuated crew members and boat were

shifted ashore.

• Mechanical Failure/ Off Yemen/ 21 May 21.

On 21 May 21, it was reported that a Liberia flagged bulk carrier XIN RUN encountered mechanical failure while

transiting off Yemen. The vessel reportedly experienced some issue with its sea water filter, which was repaired

subsequently. The vessel continued its voyage to her next port of call.

• Capsize/ Off Khlong Yai, Thailand/ 21 May 21.

On 21 May 21, it was reported that a small cargo vessel with six crew onboard capsized off Khlong Yai, Thailand.

Reportedly, the vessel struck a rock when it was bound for Vietnam. Later, the vessel encountered a high tide and

capsized. All the crew members were reported to be safe. Only one pig from the cargo of 200, survived the incident.

• Sunk/ Off Pantai Cahaya Bulan, Malaysia/ 21 May 21.

On 21 May 21, it was reported that a fishing boat with five fishermen onboard sank off Pantai Cahaya Bulan,

Malaysia. Reportedly, the boat encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area and eventually sank. Subsequently,

fishing vessels transiting through the area sighted the stranded fishermen, rescued them and shifted them ashore.

• Capsize/ Off Kuala Kedah, Malaysia/ 22 May 21.

On 22 May 21, it was reported that a class C fishing vessel with four local fishermen onboard capsized about 05 nm

Southwest of Kuala Kedah, Malaysia. Reportedly, the crew raised a distress alert after their boat developed a leak

and eventually capsized. Subsequently, the coastal authorities approached the distress vessel, rescued the stranded

fishermen, shifted them ashore and provided them with medical assistance.

• Fire/ Off Mongla, Bangladesh/ 23 May 21.

On 23 May 21, it was reported that a product tanker SEALINK UTSHAB caught fire whilst at anchorage off Mongla,

Bangladesh. Fire was reported in the engine room of the tanker loaded with 1900 tonnes of fuel. The local

authorities approached the distressed vessel and brought the fire under control. Four crew member sustained serious

injuries, one of whom reportedly lost his life while enroute to the hospital.

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• Capsize/ Off Mangalore, India/ 23 May 21.

On 23 May 21, it was reported that a fishing vessel with 10 crew members onboard

capsized off Mangalore, India. Reportedly, the vessel struck boulders while returning to

the shore and eventually capsized. However, all the crew members were reported to be

safe and were able to reach the shore.

• Aground/ Off Jazirat As Sawdah, Oman/ 23 May 21.

On 23 May 21, it was reported that a Togo flagged cargo vessel MUZAH with 12 crew onboard ran aground off

Jazirat As Sawdah Island, Oman. Reportedly, the vessel was enroute from Yemen to Dubai, UAE. The hull was

breached in engine room area, which subsequently flooded. Omani authorities responded to the distress alert and

evacuated the stranded crew (six Syrians and six Indians).

• SAR/ Off Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand/ 23 May 21.

On 23 May 21, it was reported that Thai Navy rescued eight fishermen from a sinking fishing boat off Prachuap

Khiri Khan, Thailand. Reportedly, the fishermen raised a distress alert after their fishing boat started sinking.

Subsequently, the Navy deployed a helicopter which safely evacuated the stranded crew and shifted them ashore to

a local hospital, for medical assistance.

• Mechanical Failure/ Off Mossel Bay, South Africa/ 24 May 21.

On 24 May 21, it was reported that a yacht encountered engine failure and was adrift off Mossel Bay, South Africa.

Reportedly, the yacht was taken in tow by a nearby research vessel and all five occupants were rescued. The

research vessel towed the yacht outside of the harbour where the sea rescue craft took it into port.

• Mechanical Failure/ Off Karachi, Pakistan/ 24 May 21.

On 24 May 21, it was reported that a fishing vessel AL- AHMED encountered engine failure off Karachi, Pakistan.

Reportedly, the stranded crew raised a distress alert after the vessel encountered a mechanical failure. Subsequently,

the authorities responded to the distress call, rescued the stranded personnel and towed the vessel ashore.

• Medevac/ Off Robben Island, South Africa/ 24 May 21.

On 24 May 21, it was reported that Indian authorities evacuated a crew from a bulk carrier off Robben Island, South

Africa. Reportedly, the crew member was injured on board and required urgent medical assistance and was airlifted

by the authorities. Later, the patient was transferred to a local hospital for further treatment.

• Capsize/ Off San Jose, Philippines/ 24 May 21.

On 24 May 21, it was reported that a fishing vessel PAULINE 2 with 31 fishermen onboard capsized off San Jose,

Philippines. Reportedly, the fishing boat developed a leak and started to sink. Another boat transiting through the

area sighted the vessel in distress and raised a distress alert. Subsequently, the Philippine Coast Guard approached

the distress vessel, rescued the stranded personnel and shifted them ashore.

54

• Medevac/ Off Nha Trang, Vietnam / 24 May 21.

On 24 May 21, it was reported that Vietnamese authorities evacuated a crew from a Panama flagged oil tanker

MAYASAN about 35 nm South-East of Nha Trang, Vietnam. Reportedly, the crew member was suffering with

severe abdominal pain and required urgent medical assistance. Subsequently, Vietnamese vessel approached the

tanker and carried out evacuation of the patient.

• Fire/ Off South Tanimbar, Indonesia/ 24 May 21.

On 24 May 21, it was reported that a passenger vessel KMP LELEMUKU caught fire off South Tanimbar, Indonesia.

Reportedly, the vessel caught fire due to a short circuit onboard the vessel. A salvage operation by coastal authorities

was initiated to extinguish the fire. As per reports, one of the crew sustained injuries and was shifted to local

hospital for medical treatment.

• Capsize/ Off Odisha Coast, India/ 25 May 21.

On 25 May 21, it was reported that a fishing boat with 10 personnel onboard capsized off the coast of Odisha, India.

Reportedly, the fishing vessel encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area due to cyclone YAAS and

eventually capsized. Subsequently, multi-agency rescue teams led by NDRF approached the distressed vessel,

rescued the stranded personnel and shifted them ashore.

• Man Overboard/ Off Samui Island, Thailand/ 25 May 21.

On 25 May 21, it was reported that a crew fell overboard from a fishing trawler SOR SIN SIRICHAI 9 off Samui

Island, Thailand. A search operation by the coastal authorities was reported conducted to locate the missing crew.

The cause of the incident was not reported.

• Capsize/ Off Vizhinjam, India/ 25 May 21.

On 25 May 21, it was reported that two fishermen went missing from a fishing boat off Vizhinjam, India.

Reportedly, a group of fishermen onboard three fishing boats encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area and

eventually capsized. Subsequently, the authorities approached the distressed vessels and rescued the crew of two

fishing boats. Mortal remains of the two missing fishermen were recovered on 27 May 21.

• Missing/ Off Karwar, India/ 25 May 21.

On 25 May 21, it was reported that a local fishing vessel AJMEERSHA with 16 crew members onboard went missing

about 55 nm South-West of Karwar, India. The cause of the incident was not reported.

• Mechanical Failure/ Off Riau Islands, Indonesia/ 26 May 21.

On 26 May 21, it was reported that an Indonesia flagged product tanker SEABORNE PETRO encountered engine

failure off Riau Islands, Indonesia. Reportedly, a patrol boat was dispatched by the coastal authorities to assist the

repairs. The repairs were reportedly completed the same day and vessel resumed its voyage for her next port of call.

55

• Sunk/ Strait Of Hormuz/ 26 May 21.

On 26 May 21, it was reported that an Iran flagged cargo vessel MATIN 1 carrying ceramic tiles sank in the Strait of

Hormuz. The ship was enroute from Bandar Abbas, Iran to Oman. Reportedly, all the crew members onboard the

vessel were rescued. The cause of the incident was not reported.

• Capsize/ Off Bhashan Char, Bangladesh/ 26 May 21.

On 26 May 21, it was reported that a stone-laden lighter ship MV SANVALLI with 12 personnel onboard capsized

off Bhashan Char, Bangladesh. Reportedly, the vessel encountered heavy weather prevailing in the area due to

cyclone YAAS and eventually capsized. Subsequently, two helicopters of Bangladesh Air Force approached the

distressed vessel, evacuated the stranded crew members and shifted them ashore.

• Medevac/ Off Salalah, Oman/ 26 May 21.

On 26 May 21, it was reported that Oman authorities evacuated a crew from a Panama flagged merchant ship off

Salalah, Oman. Reportedly, the crew member was in critical condition and required urgent medical assistance. The

evacuated crew was shifted to a local hospital for further treatment.

• Mechanical Failure/ Off New Mangalore, India/ 27 May 21.

On 27 May 21, it was reported that Coast Guard Ship RAJDOOT rescued 10 fishermen from a fishing boat

LORD OF THE OCEAN off New Mangalore, India. Reportedly, the stranded fishermen raised a distress alert after

their boat encountered an engine failure. Subsequently, the authorities responded to the distress call, rescued the

stranded fishermen and towed the boat ashore.

• Sunk/ Off Hambantota, Sri Lanka/ 27 May 21.

On 27 May 21, it was reported that a local fishing vessel KUMESH PUTHA sank about 380 nm Southeast of

Hambantota, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the crew members onboard the vessel were rescued safely. The cause of the

incident was not reported.

• Vessel Detained/ Off Tanjung Gemoh, Malaysia/ 27 May 21.

On 27 May 21, it was reported that Malaysian authorities detained a Denmark registered tanker with 19 personnel

onboard about 24 nm East of Tanjung Gemoh, Malaysia. Reportedly, the vessel was anchored inside the country’s

territorial waters without a valid permission. The detained vessel was handed over to the local authorities for

further investigation.

• Cargo Mishap/ Gulf Of Boni/ 28 May 21.

On 28 May 21, an incident of cargo mishap was reported onboard an Indonesia flagged passenger ship KOTA MUNA

in Gulf of Boni. Reportedly, strong winds battered the ship and bad weather conditions caused one of the trucks

onboard to topple. The driver of the truck was reported safe.

• Aground/ Suez Canal/ 28 May 21.

On 28 May 21, it was reported that a Singapore flagged container vessel MAERSK EMERALD ran aground in Suez

Canal, while transiting southbound. Reportedly, the vessel encountered a mechanical failure and eventually ran

56

aground. The vessel was re-floated by the workboats in the vicinity and was assisted to the Great Bitter Lake. Later,

the crew fixed the mechanical malfunction and the vessel continued its voyage to her next port of call.

• Vessel Detained/ Off Mannar, Sri Lanka/ 29 May 21.

On 29 May 21, it was reported that the Sri Lankan Navy detained and repatriated four foreign fishing vessels with 40

fishermen onboard off Mannar, Sri Lanka. Reportedly, the fishing vessels attempting to illegally enter the country’s

waters.

• Fire/ Off Sula Islands, Indonesia/ 29 May 21.

On 29 May 21, it was reported that a passenger vessel KARYA INDAH with 181 passengers and 14 crew onboard

caught fire off Sula Islands, Indonesia. Reportedly, a rescue operation by the coastal authorities was initiated and all

the passengers and crew were safely evacuated. The cause of fire was not reported.

57

Environmental Security

FSO tanker JNAT beached off Gadani, Pakistan.

➢ The Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) tanker J. NAT beached on the shipbreaking shores of Gadani,

Pakistan on 31 May 21. The vessel, formerly known as JESSLYN NATUNA, operated in the Natuna gas field

was recently sold to a cash buyer, was re-named J. NAT and re-flagged it to Palau. The FSO J. NAT left

Indonesian waters on 18 Apr 20. Reportedly the vessel contained about 1500 tonnes of hazardous waste that

was not properly processed for disposal.

➢ For more than a year the vessel was reportedly under the spotlight of enforcement agencies. Bangladesh

and India banned its entry.

➢ The ship’s identity, its name has been changed several times, from J. NAT to RADIANT to CHERISH.

After several months off the radar, the vessel recently reappeared in Mumbai before initiating its final voyage

towards Pakistan.

➢ Local media reports that mercury-contaminated oil sludge was removed from the ship and filled in

drums for sale. It is also reported that the vessel's steel is likely to contaminated by mercury, which may release

toxic vapours when heated.

➢ Dismantling operations of the J. NAT have now reportedly been halted by local authorities, and an

investigation has been launched.

58

• Suspicious Approach/ Off Zubayr Islands, Yemen/ 03 May 21. (Red Sea)

An incident of suspicious approach was reported onboard a container vessel off Zubayr Islands, Yemen on 03 May

21. Reportedly, an unknown number of perpetrators approached the vessel onboard two skiffs and ordered the

Master to stop the vessel. Upon sighting the skiff, the vessel carried out evasive manoeuvres. Subsequently, the skiff

aborted the approach and fled away. The crew and the vessel were reported to be safe.

• Attack/ Off Hudaydah, Yemen/ 18 May 21. (Red Sea)

An incident of attack was reported onboard a GREEN PEACE vessel (NAME WITHHELD) in Red Sea on 18 May 21.

Reportedly, four armed perpetrators onboard a passenger boat approached the vessel and fired shots in the air. The

Master of vessel raised the alarm, activated distress alert, increased speed and took evasive manoeuvres due to which

the perpetrators fled away. The crew and ship were reported to be safe.

• Attack/ Off Red/ 25 May 21. (Red Sea)

An incident of attack was reported in South of the Red Sea using a booby-trapped boat laden with explosives that

was foiled by the Saudi-led coalition on 25 May 21. This was reported to be related to the ongoing conflict in the

area.

West Asia/ Middle East Update

59

• Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm “TAUKTAE” over East Central Arabian Sea.

A low-pressure area was formed over southeast Arabian Sea & adjoining

Lakshadweep area in the morning of 13 May 21. Subsequently, it

concentrated into a depression over Lakshadweep area in the morning of

14 May 21. It intensified into a deep depression over Lakshadweep area

and adjoining Southeast and East Central Arabian Sea in the same

afternoon and into cyclonic storm in the same midnight over the same

region. It moved nearly Northwards and intensified into a severe cyclonic

storm by the evening of 15 May 21 over East Central Arabian Sea.

Continuing to move nearly Northwards, it intensified into a very severe

cyclonic storm over East Central Arabian Sea in the early hours of 16 May

21. It gradually started moving North-Northwestwards from noon of 16

May 21 and intensified rapidly into an extremely severe cyclonic storm by

the early hours of 17 May 21. Thereafter, it weakened gradually and

crossed Saurashtra coast, close to Northeast of Diu in the evening of 17 May 21. After landfall, it weakened into a

very severe cyclonic storm over Saurashtra in the midnight of 17 May 21. Thereafter, it started moving north-

northeastwards and weakened into a severe cyclonic storm in the forenoon over Saurashtra and further into a

cyclonic storm during noon of 18 May 21 over Saurashtra and adjoining Gujarat region. Continuing to move north-

northeastwards, it weakened into a deep depression over Gujarat region in the evening and into a depression over

Gujarat region and adjoining South Rajasthan in the midnight of 18 May 21.

NATURAL EVENTS

➢ Comments. Tauktae is the fourth cyclone in consecutive years to have developed in the Arabian Sea, that

too in the pre-monsoon period (April to June). ➢ After Cyclone Mekanu in 2018, which struck Oman, Cyclone Vayu in 2019 struck Gujarat, India, followed by Cyclone Nisarga in 2020 that struck Maharashtra, India. ➢ All these cyclones since 2018 have been categorised either ‘Severe Cyclone’ or above.

MARITIME INCIDENTS AND SAR - CYCLONE TAUKTAE

Date Vessel Name Location Incident Details Rescued/ Survived

Deceased Missing

1. 14 May 21

FB BADHRIYAIN Off Kannur, Kerala, India

Adrift 03 -- --

2. 15 May 21

Tug ALLIANCE Off Mangalore, India

Sank 03 02 03

3. 15 May 21 Container Vessel SSL GANGA

Off Mangalore, India

Injuries and MOB due to heavy weather

03 01 --

4. 16 May 21

Tug COROMONDEL SUPPORTER IX

Off Mangalore, India

Grounding 09 -- --

5. 16 May 21

FB JESUS 35 Off Kochi, Kerala, India

Adrift 12 -- --

60

• Very Severe Cyclonic Storm “YAAS” Over East-Central Bay Of Bengal.

A low-pressure area was formed over East Central Bay of Bengal (BoB) in the

morning of 22 May 21. It lay as a well-marked low-pressure area in the same

afternoon over east-central BoB. Under favourable environmental conditions,

it concentrated into a depression over east central BoB in the noon of 23 May

21. It moved northwestwards and intensified into a deep depression over east

central BoB in the midnight of 23 May 21 and into the cyclonic storm in the

early morning of 24 May 21 over the same region. It moved nearly north-

northwestwards and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm in the midnight

of 24 May 21 over east central BoB. It started moving northwards from the

morning of 25 May 21 and intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm.

Thereafter, it moved north-northwestwards reached peak intensity of 75 kts

and centered over northwest BoB about 30 km east of Dhamra Port, Odisha during early morning of 26 May 21.

Continuing to move north-northwestwards, it crossed north Odisha coast, about 20 km to the south of Balasore.

Further moving north-northwestwards, it weakened rapidly into a severe cyclonic storm over north coastal Odisha

in the afternoon, into a cyclonic storm over north Odisha in the evening and into a deep depression in the midnight

of 26 May 21 over north interior Odisha and adjoining Jharkhand. It weakened into a depression over central parts

of Jharkhand in the noon of 27 May 21. Thereafter, it moved northwestwards and weakened into a well-marked

MARITIME INCIDENTS AND SAR - CYCLONE TAUKTAE

Date Vessel Name Location Incident Details Rescued/ Survived

Deceased Missing

6. 17 May 21

FB MILAD Off Goa, India

Adrift 15 -- --

7. 17 May 21

Barge P305 Off Mumbai, India

Sunk 186 75 --

8. 17 May 21

Barge GAL CONSTRUCTOR

Off Mumbai, India

Grounding 137 -- --

9. 17 May 21

Barge SUPPORT STATION-3

Off Pipavav Anchorage, India

Adrift 196 -- --

10. 17 May 21

Tug VARAPRADA Off Mumbai, India

Sunk 02 11 --

11. 17 May 21 Two Tankers Off Mumbai, India

Adrift 45 -- --

12. 18 May 21

Fishing Boat (Name Unknown)

Off Veraval, Gujarat, India

Adrift 08 -- --

Total 423 89 03

61

low-pressure area over Bihar and adjoining southeast Uttar Pradesh in the early morning of 28 May 21 and became

less marked on 29 May 21.

➢ Comments. After Cyclone Amphan, Nivar and Burevi, which struck in Bay of Bengal in 2020, YAAS hit

the area in 2021. ➢ All these cyclones since 2018 have been categorised either ‘Severe Cyclone’ or above.

MARITIME INCIDENTS AND SAR - CYCLONE YAAS

Ser Date Vessel Name/Type Location Incident Details Rescued/Survived

Deceased Missing

1. 25 May 21

Fishing Vessel Off Odisha, India Capsized 10 -- --

2. 26 May 21 Lighter ship MV SANVALLI

Off Bhashan Char, Bangladesh

Capsized 12 -- --

22 -- --

62

• Stable Seas – announces a New Chapter.

On 01 May 21, Stable Seas, formerly of One Earth Future, became a new and

independent transnational non-profit entity. Stable Seas will continue to produce

rigorous research and build partnerships to support holistic solutions to the world's

most difficult maritime security challenges.

• LNG spot price, tanker rates jump on global restocking demand.

Asian spot prices for liquefied natural gas (LNG) and shipping rates to carry the super-chilled fuel soared to unusual

highs in May 21 on the back of strong demand to restock gas inventories in Europe and Asia, industry sources said.

“Traders are replenishing gas inventory in Europe after it dropped to very low levels during winter, so the

restocking is supporting prices in Asia,” a Singapore-based LNG trader stated. The daily charter rate for shipping

LNG on a vessel able to carry about 175,000 to 180,000 cubic metres of LNG has risen to up to $70,000 to $80,000

from around $50,000 to $65,000 last week, two shipping sources said.

• BIMCO: Scrubbers contribute to increase in HSFO Sales in 2021.

A year after the start of the IMO’s 2020 sulfur cap, the price spread among

the different types of fuel has stabilised contributing both to a rebound in

sales of high-sulfur fuel and supporting the business case for scrubber

installations according to a new analysis from BIMCO. The analysis

highlights a nearly 50 percent increase in sales of HSFO in the first quarter

of 2021 versus a year ago. While sales of high sulfur fuel are today less than

the level in the first quarter of 2019, they grew by a reported one million

tons in 2021, to surpass three million tons, and the increase in HSFO sales

exceeded the fall in low-sulfur fuel oil (LSFO) and marine gas oil (MGO)

sales.

• IMO-Singapore NextGEN project aims to facilitate collaboration and information sharing across maritime

decarbonisation initiatives.

The NextGEN project, which aims to bring

together decarbonisation initiatives in the maritime sector, has

held its first meeting in May 21, bringing together multiple

stakeholders from across the global shipping community and the

maritime value chain who have an interest in cutting greenhouse

gas emissions from shipping and tackling climate

change. NextGEN - where GEN stands for "green and efficient

navigation" is led by the International Maritime Organisation

(IMO) and the Government of Singapore. It aims to facilitate

information sharing on various decarbonisation initiatives in the

global shipping community and across the maritime value

chain, to identify opportunities for collaboration and gaps. 

Information/ Events of Interest

63

• IMO issues its latest version of crew change protocols.

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) issued its latest version of the industry-

developed crew change protocols in May 21. This framework of protocols sets out general

measures and procedures that should, so far as practicable, be implemented by Governments

and all stakeholders concerned, to facilitate safe ship crew changes during the COVID-19

pandemic. The latest version of crew change protocols published by IMO can be accessed on

the link below:

https://safety4sea.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/IMO-Revised-Crew-Change-protocols-2021_04.pdf • Supply chain firms urged to protect seafarers’ rights.

A wide-ranging set of guidance has been issued to help enterprises using shipping services to protect the human

rights of seafarers, as hundreds of thousands are still stranded on ships due to COVID-19 imposed travel restrictions.

The Due Diligence Tool for cargo owners and charterers has been issued amid concerns that the number of crew

stranded at sea by COVID-19 restrictions could surge from the current level of 200,000, potentially returning to the

peak of 400,000 seafarers at the height of the crew change crisis in September 2020.The Human Rights Due

Diligence Tool is a joint initiative of the UN Global Compact (UNGC), the Office of the High Commissioner for

Human Rights (UN Human Rights), the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Maritime

Organisation (IMO).

• Autonomous shipping, Covid-19 impact, security and fuel safety in spotlight.

The foundations for the future development of a regulatory

framework for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) was

laid at the 103rd session of IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee

(MSC), held in remote session from 05-14 May 21.  The Committee

will consider the outcome of a regulatory scoping exercise on

MASS carried out over the last couple of years and identify

priorities for further work. MSC 103 will also explore the impact of

the COVID-19 pandemic on shipping and seafarers. The

Committee is expected to discuss several submissions, including a

proposal for adoption of a resolution on prioritising seafarers for

COVID-19 vaccination.

• Satellite Startup tracks ships' radars and radios from space.

Virginia-based startup HAWKEYE 360 has introduced a unique idea

to bolster maritime domain awareness. The firm uses a constellation of

small satellites to detect and locate the source of commercial radio

frequency emissions – everything from VHF push-to-talk radios to

maritime radar transmissions, AIS beacons, satellite mobile comms and

more. It has the potential to uncover hidden patterns and relationships

among vessel features that previous ML algorithms failed to do.

Potential vessel behaviours of interest include illegal fishing, human

trafficking, ship-to-ship transfers, sanctions-busting, GPS jamming and

smuggling.

64

• Calls grow for UN investigation of seafarer rights violations amid the pandemic.

Seafarers’ representatives and shipowners have asked the United Nations to establish an interagency task force to

examine the implementation and practical application of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC) during the

Covid-19 pandemic. Specifically, the call for a UN investigation came in a resolution adopted at the 4th session of

the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Special Tripartite Committee (STC) of the Maritime Labour

Convention, held virtually between 19 to 23 Apr 21.The STC meeting also agreed in a separate resolution that

transport workers should be prioritised for Covid-19 vaccination, backing ITF’s public call last week for

governments to stop ignoring WHO advice and prioritise vaccines on humanitarian and economic grounds.

• IMO Secretary General urges fair vaccine distribution for seafarers.

IMO Secretary-General has called on all IMO Member States to support a

fair global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, beyond fulfilling their

national needs, to ensure seafarers can access vaccines. In a statement, he

reiterated his call for seafarers and marine personnel to be designated as “key

workers” and noted that some key maritime labour supply countries are

reliant on the COVAX initiative of the World Health Organisation (WHO)

to access vaccines. The health of the world’s seafarers and the safety of their

workplaces has to remain one of our main priorities and can only be

guaranteed if industry and Member States continue to provide all necessary

measures such as testing, appropriate PPE, access to medical care and

sanitation facilities to prevent the spread of the virus.

• Neptune Declaration issues Best Practices for Charterers.

The Neptune Declaration, signed in early 2021, calls for increased collaboration between charterers and ship

operators based on the notion that managing crew changes is a shared responsibility. The Neptune Declaration

signatories have developed a set of best practices to turn recommendations into concrete action. These best practices

serve as a framework for charterers to help facilitate crew changes and work with ship owners to minimize the

disruptions to operations – to the benefit of all stakeholders involved, not least the seafarers.

• Suez Canal Southern stretch to be expanded, after MV EVER GIVEN incident.

Following the MV EVER GIVEN’s grounding on 23 Mar 21, which

blocked the Suez Canal in both directions for six days, Suez Canal

Authority (SCA) plans to expand and deepen the Southern stretch of the

waterway. About a month ago, SCA was first announced its

considerations on the waterway expansion. However, Chairman Osama

Rabie officially confirmed and presented the plan at an event attended by

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who indicated that the project

should be completed in 24 months at most. As informed, the SCA plans to

widen the southernmost 30km stretch of the waterway between the city

of Suez and the Bitter Lakes area by 40 mtr (130 feet) eastwards. At the

same time, it also plans to deepen that section to 72 feet from 66 feet.

65

• Energy efficient ship operation - free online course launched.

IMO’s public-private partnership initiative to tackle GHG

emissions, the Global Industry Alliance to Support Low Carbon Shipping

(Low Carbon GIA), has launched a free to access E-Learning course aimed

at seafarers and anyone interested in this aspect of shipping. The self-

paced course, ‘An Introduction to Energy Efficient Ship Operation’ is

intended as a first glimpse into how GHG emissions from ships can be

addressed. The online course, designed by e-learning specialist Ocean

Technologies Group, features videos, text information, quizzes and

more for an interactive experience. The course is specifically designed to

be accessible to non-technical audiences.

• ICS: Ships to sound horns on 25 June 21 to support seafarers.

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), along with industry

and social partners, are encouraging ships in ports globally to sound

their horns at 12 noon local time on 25 Jun 21, to honour of the

International Maritime Organisations’ ‘Day of the Seafarer’. This

action also aims to serve as a reminder to the world of the urgent

need to vaccinate all seafarers. Additionally, in order to help in the

global seafarer vaccination effort, ICS has published a vaccination

roadmap to help establish seafarer vaccination hubs, similar to

those currently in operation.

• New measures to detect and report containers lost at sea - IMO.

The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 103) meeting of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) was held

remotely from 05-14 May 21. One of the issues discussed at the meeting – among a very comprehensive list on the

agenda, was new measures to mitigate for containers lost at sea. Containers lost at sea represent a potential danger to

maritime safety and is a threat to the environment, particularly with regard to the plastics they contain. Over the

course of three months late last year and early this year, almost 3,500 containers were lost in several incidents in the

Western Pacific. The MSC therefore agreed to initiate new measures to detect and report containers lost at sea,

which may enhance the positioning, tracking and recovery of such containers. The IMO agreed to establish a

compulsory system to declare the loss of containers and setting up means onboard to easily identify the exact

number of losses.

• IMO working group agreed guidelines to support new GHG measures.

An International Maritime Organisation (IMO) working group has agreed a set of draft guidelines to

support mandatory measures to cut the carbon intensity of all ships. The proposed mandatory measures have already

been approved by IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) and are expected to be adopted when

the MEPC meets for its 76th session from 10 to 17 Jun 21. The proposed amendments to the MARPOL Convention

would require ships to combine a technical and an operational approach to reduce their carbon intensity. This is in

line with the ambition of the Initial IMO GHG Strategy, which aims to reduce carbon intensity of international

shipping by 40% by 2030, compared to 2008.

66

• Instructions published on firefighting installations onboard Bahamas-flagged vessels.

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) provided instructions for the inspection, maintenance, testing and survey

requirements for firefighting installations and portable fire extinguishers. The detailed instruction published by

BMA can be accessed on the link below:

https://safety4sea.com/instructions-published-on-firefighting-installations-onboard-bahamas-flagged-vessels/

• Weather Forecast. A monthly weather forecast for the month of Jun 21 in IOR region has been uploaded on

IFC-IOR website for reference.

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Disclaimer

Information collated in the IFC-IOR’s monthly report has been derived from various internal and external linkages

such as partner nations, other maritime stakeholders, agencies and open sources. The report aims to undertake

analysis of incidents by establishing trends and anomalies to ensure safety and security of mariners and seafarers.

While due care and effort has been taken to ensure veracity of data, due diligence may be exercised for subsequent

usage of information contained therein. IFC-IOR requests and seeks assistance of all stakeholders to report

incidents in the region to undertake accurate predictive and prescriptive analysis and build a comprehensive

picture of existing threats in the maritime domain. The information contained in the report and the analysis

thereon, is not reflective of the views of the Indian Government or Indian Navy in any manner.

Contact Details

In case of any incident at sea, suspicious approach or unusual observed activity at sea, please contact IFC-IOR: -

Website: - https://www.indiannavy.nic.in/ifc-ior/

Email: - ifc-ior.gurugram@navy.gov.in

Tel: - +91 1242208385, +91 7428963733

Fax: - +91 1242209385

Twitter: - @IFC_IOR