Ai-Maru Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On June 14, 2014, the 'Ai Maru' departed from Singapore en route to the Gulf of Thailand, transporting a cargo of 1,520 tonnes of marine gas oil. The vessel came under attack in the South China Sea at 8:30 p.m. when a group of robbers approached in three speed boats. A rapid response from maritime authorities was initiated immediately. By 12:50 a.m. on June 15, the 'Ai Maru' had activated its shipboard lights and appeared to be devoid of unauthorized personnel, indicating that the intruders had likely abandoned ship upon realizing that officials were approaching. A Malaysian maritime enforcement vessel then arrived alongside the tanker to conduct an investigation. This incident marks the second time the 'Ai Maru' has faced piracy; the first occurred in 2012 in the same waters, where the attackers aimed to siphon off cargo but were thwarted by nearby authorities. Once again, the swift actions of regional maritime forces proved to be effective in protecting the vessel and its valuable cargo.