The IFC recently participated in a ship security drill with shipping partner Ocean Network Express (ONE) for the first time.
The drill scenario featured an unauthorised boarding involving Singapore-flagged container vessel ONE ATLAS as it transited the Indian Ocean and concluded with a simulated scenario of the Indian Navy boarding the vessel to provide assistance. The IFC facilitated the involvement of the Indian Navy through our India International Liaison Officer, LCDR Debashish Sunil Roychoundhary, who was instrumental in ensuring expeditious info-exchange amongst the various parties involved; this arrangement also provided a realistic setting for ONE ATLAS' crew to exercise emergency procedures and coordinate directly with the IFC and Indian Navy for operational responses, strengthening mutual trust and confidence.
The IFC used the opportunity to reaffirm the importance of timely reporting and having well- oiled operational procedures with local authorities. Mr. Rayson Wong, Deputy Director of MPA Singapore Registry of Ships (SRS), also shared on MPA'S processes and responsibilities re Singapore-flagged vessels in responding to such incidents.
The IFC thanks Mr. Shunsuke Fujisaki, Deputy General Manager of ONE, and his team for inviting us to participate in this drill. We look forward to future collaborations. Together we can ensure Safe and Secure Seas for all.