What Crew Members Say About Al-Derwazah

In a shocking incident late at night on October 22, 2024, the 'Al Derwazah', a vessel traveling from Mina al Ahmadi to Ningbo with a crew of 33, was attacked by six armed assailants approximately 2.5 nautical miles northwest of Pulau Cula. This event unfolded around 11:15 p.m. local time as the ship was navigating the Racon Delta in Selat Durian, Takong, near the bustling Batu Ampar in Batam City. The assault came to light when the Second Engineer discovered the Chief Engineer bound and alerted the crew by activating the emergency alarm. The quick response deterred the intruders, who hastily fled the scene before the patrol team could arrive. Promptly, the Batam Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) received notification of the incident and relayed the report to the Tanjung Uban PLP Base and Ditpolairud Polda Kepri, initiating an emergency response. The Kementerian Perhubungan (KPLP) dispatched the vessels 'KNP 376' and 'KNP Kalimashada' to the area. By 01:56 a.m. local time, a team of six POLAIR officers approached the 'Al Derwazah' using a rubber boat to assess the situation of both the ship and its crew. A joint operation comprising Ditpolairud Polda Kepri, Baharkam BKO Patrol, and KPLP officials proceeded with their examination on board. Upon investigation, the crew found the Chief Engineer held captive in the engine room after having his personal belongings stolen by the pirates. Missing items included his mobile phone, wallet, watch, and necklace. A ship-wide search confirmed that the perpetrators had successfully evaded capture. While the attack was recorded on the ship's CCTV system, the crew declined to allow access to the footage, which has hampered efforts in identifying the attackers. After ensuring the safety of its crew and securing the vessel, the 'Al Derwazah' continued on its planned route. For more details on this maritime security incident, visit: https://hubla.dephub.go.id/Indonesianmaritimesafetyinformation/page/news/read/23590/perompakan-kapal-mt-al-derwazah-di-perairan-batam-kru-selamat-barang-berharga-dirampok-piracy-incident-on-mt-al-derwazah-in-batam-waters-crew-safe-valuables-stolen.