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Over the past week, 19-25 May, one incident of piracy or armed robbery against ships in Asia.

One CAT 2 incident of armed robbery against ships2 in Asia. The incident occurred onboard a container ship while at anchor at Chittagong Outer Anchorage, Bangladesh on 7 May 2026. About eight to ten perpetrators armed with long knives boarded the starboard aft deck of the ship and stole 2900 litres of paint. The crew members were not injured.

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Three Myanmar sailors died while working aboard a foreign cargo ship in Indonesian waters with the incident once again highlighting the deadly dangers posed by enclosed spaces at sea.

As reported, the deceased were identified as Thura Zaw, 38, Zaw Min Htet, 34, and Han Htoo Aung, 28. Members of the Myanmar seafarers’ community said the three men died from oxygen deprivation after entering an enclosed compartment on the vessel for inspection work.

According to the Free Funeral Service Society, the bodies were transported from Yangon International Airport to North Okkalapa General Hospital on 24 May. 

Injury or death caused by oxygen deficiency remains one of the most common hazards in the maritime industry.

Confined spaces aboard ships can quickly become dangerous if not properly ventilated or monitored, posing serious risks to both workers and rescuers. Maritime safety experts stress that employers must prioritize atmospheric testing before entry, ensure proper ventilation, and provide comprehensive safety training to reduce the risks associated with confined spaces.

Workers are also required to follow strict entry procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and continuous monitoring of oxygen levels.

Understanding the dangers of oxygen deficiency and enrichment in enclosed spaces is considered critical to preventing further tragedies at sea. Between 2000 and 2024, at least 1,010 ship and shore workers lost their lives in enclosed spaces aboard vessels covered by the SOLAS Convention.

 

 

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On 23 May 2026, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) received multiple reports of suspicious activity in the Gulf of Aden.

On 26 May, several vessels operating in the area reported being approached by skiffs under suspicious circumstances. One report described a large skiff fitted with two outboard engines and carrying both ladders and weapons.

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The master handbook is comprehensive and practical manual specifically designed for ship Masters and senior officers. Its primary purpose is to provide immediate, reliable guidance when faced with incidents that commonly lead to P&I insurance claims.

Organized into detailed chapters, the handbook covers a wide range of situations that seafarers may encounter — from crew illness and injury, stowaway handling, personal injury claims, and cargo damage to serious maritime emergencies such as collisions, oil pollution, and salvage operations.

For each topic, the handbook outlines the relevant legal framework, recommended best practices, documentation requirements, and the appropriate procedures to follow, including who to notify and when.

The usefulness of this handbook cannot be overstated. In the high-stakes and often unpredictable environment of maritime operations, the ability to respond swiftly and correctly can be the difference between a manageable situation and a costly disaster.

The handbook not only helps prevent unnecessary claims through proactive measures such as training, health management, and security protocols, but it also equips Masters with the knowledge and structure to respond effectively when incidents do occur.

By translating complex legal and insurance procedures into clear operational steps, it strengthens onboard decision-making and ensures that Masters uphold the vessel’s compliance with international conventions and industry standards. In doing so, the Master’s Handbook contributes significantly to risk mitigation, crew safety, and the overall resilience of maritime operations.

Full advisory at the following link.

https://maritimecyprus.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/MASTERS-HANDBOOK_c2018.pdf