Singapore calls for international cooperation to combat ‘shadow fleet’

Singapore is calling for international cooperation to combat the activities of so-called shadow fleet vessels.

The state proposes to unite to restrict the activities of “shadow fleet” vessels directly outside its territorial waters, reports enkorr.

“Singapore fully complies with United Nations Security Council resolutions and does not condone the illegal or fraudulent activities of “shadow fleet” vessels,” said Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow in a written response to a parliamentary question.

According to him, such vessels may be refused entry to Singapore or may be detained there.

The world’s largest bunkering center is already working closely with neighboring countries to combat illegal maritime activities in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. The countries exchange information to support investigations and also conduct coordinated patrols.

Singapore also monitors vessel traffic as part of the Vessel Traffic Service for the mandatory shipping reporting system in the straits. The country provides navigational information and reports violations of International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions to flag states.

USM previously reported that a man in Singapore is tracking “shadow fleet” tankers from his rooftop.