Working Conditions Aboard the Elvia

A spate of attempted robberies in the waters off Singapore has raised alarms, with three incidents unfolding within just five days. On January 28, 2021, the bulk carrier 'Elvia' became a target when it was boarded by a group of ten assailants wielding bladed instruments while navigating through the eastbound lane of the Singapore Strait's traffic separation scheme. Thanks to the swift response from the Singapore Navy, these intruders were forced to flee prior to any successful theft. An immediate inspection of the vessel confirmed that no belongings had been compromised during the incident. The 'Elvia,' which had recently departed from Singapore, was en route to Lianyungang at the time. Just a day later, on January 29, the 'Vantage Wave' encountered its own robbery attempt as three individuals attempted to board while the vessel was also traveling through the eastbound lane. Following the vessel's search, it was confirmed that no items were reported missing. The 'Vantage Wave' had similarly called at Singapore before its journey to Caofeidian. These two incidents were preceded by an alarming attempt involving the 'Ark Royal' on January 25, where the vessel's master spotted an alarming five unauthorized individuals in the engine room. Despite raising the alarm and conducting a thorough search, no further sightings of the would-be thieves were reported, and nothing had been taken from the ship. The recent surge in maritime robbery attempts off Singapore highlights the importance of vigilance and immediate action in safeguarding maritime operations in this bustling region.