Maritime Security Report: 13–20 October 2025

Palaemon Maritime
6 days ago
3 min read

Explosion risk in the Gulf of Aden, piracy in West Africa, and growing tensions in the South China Sea.

This week’s maritime security developments highlight a mix of state aggression, criminal boarding attempts, and high-risk vessel incidents across key global shipping lanes. Operators transiting the Gulf of Aden, South China Sea, West Africa, and Southeast Asia should remain alert and ensure BMP5 measures are fully enforced.

Maritime critical security incidents, Palaemon Maritime.

Executive Summary

West Africa: Opportunistic robberies at anchor continue.
Gulf of Aden / Red Sea: Vessel explosion prompts high-risk navigational warnings.
South China Sea: State-on-state confrontation risk increasing.
Southeast Asia: Engine part theft remains a persistent threat.

Regional Incident Breakdown

🚨 South China Sea – China–Philippines Collision Raises Tensions

On 12 October, a China Coast Guard vessel (bow number 21559) collided with and used water cannons against Philippine fisheries vessel BRP Datu Pagbuaya near Thitu Island. The attack caused minor damage and forced the Philippine vessel to alter course.

This latest confrontation is part of a broader pattern of escalation around disputed waters, increasing operational risk for commercial shipping caught near such encounters.

✅ Risk level: Elevated

✅ Action: Avoid proximity to geopolitical standoffs; maintain wide berth from coast guard and naval activity.

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⚙️ Straits of Malacca – Engine Theft Continues

A Cyprus-flagged bulk carrier (Power Globe) was boarded by armed robbers on 16 October while transiting the Straits of Malacca. Two intruders entered the steering gear room, stole engine parts, and fled when detected. No crew injuries were reported.

✅ Trend: Engine spare theft remains one of the most frequent maritime crimes in Southeast Asia.

✅ Action: Harden access to steering gear rooms; secure engine compartments and critical systems.

⚓ Gulf of Guinea – Robbery at Luanda Anchorage

A Liberia-flagged tanker was boarded at Luanda Anchorage, Angola on 16 October. Two robbers accessed the vessel via the forecastle and stole ship stores before escaping. Port control was notified.

✅ Risk level: Moderate but persistent

✅ Action: Avoid complacency at anchor; use razor wire alternatives or barrier systems and maintain active watch.

💥 Gulf of Aden – Explosion on MV Falcon (LPG Tanker)

The Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker MV Falcon reported an explosion onboard on 18 October southeast of Aden. The tanker is linked to illicit oil trading networks and remains fully loaded with LNG, posing an ongoing explosion hazard. Twenty-four crew members were evacuated.

The cause is still unknown — missile strike and onboard accident remain plausible.

✅ Coordinates: Approx. 12°21’43”N, 46°39’32”E

✅ Action: Maintain safe distance from the vessel; report any drifting hazards to UKMTO.

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Security Outlook

Geopolitical risk in the South China Sea continues to grow.
Gulf of Aden remains one of the world’s most dangerous shipping areas.
Southeast Asia and West Africa continue to see low-level robbery activity targeting anchored or slow-moving vessels.
Engine part theft remains a persistent trend in the Straits of Malacca — criminal groups know what they’re looking for.

Operational Advice for Shipowners & CSOs

Enforce 24/7 watchkeeping and Layered perimeter protection.
Avoid reliance on razor wire alone — criminals cut through it in seconds.
Maintain situational awareness when transiting regions with unmanned or explosive threats.
Ensure quick access to citadel plans and alarm protocols.

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