FIVE PER CENT INCREASE IN PIRACY CASES INVOLVING SHIPS IN ASIA - RECAAP ISC

SINGAPORE, Jan 21 (Bernama) -- A hundred and one piracy incidents were
reported last year in Asia that involved ships, including 20 attempted ones,
said the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery
against Ships in Asia Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC).

ReCAAP ISC said the figure showed a marginal increase of five per cent
compared with 2008 since 98 such incidents were recorded in that year.

However, the centre in its annual report issued today said there was a
decrease in actual incidents year-on-year as it was the number of attempted
incidents which accounted for the overall increase.

It said the increase in failed attempts were attributed to greater crew
vigilance, pro-active anti-piracy measures and increased responsibility by
seafarers in reporting incidents, thus provided early warnings to other
seafarers who might be potential victims.

The centre said it was pleased that the situation had not escalated as much
as it was feared and envisaged by many due to the current economy downturn
unlike the previous surge seen during the Asian financial crisis in the 90's.

This was greatly attributed to the relevant authorities' gearing up
surveillance, presence and responses to incidents reported, added the centre.
-- BERNAMA


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