Following a recent spate of hijackings in the region, we have today received word of another missing tanker.
According to the Information Fusion Centre in Singapore, owners have lost contact with the MT Arsenal, a product tanker, today (June 17th). The tanker is carrying a cargo of MOGAS and her last known position was¬†around 12nm off the Malaysian coast. The ship was being accompanied by the tug “Pawai” and there is concern for both vessels’ well being.
On Saturday, pirates hijacked the MT Ai Maru and stole 620mt of cargo (worth around $600,000) before naval forces reached her. The pirates escaped and are currently being looked for by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).
All ships are asked to keep watch for the MT Arsenal and inform the IFC Singapore of any sighting. While the ship has not been confirmed as hijacked, given the recent number of incidents, it would seem to be a significant possibility.
