Three separate vessel arrests were recorded in Singapore over a five-day period at the end of March and into early April, according to Ship & Bunker. The detentions — spanning a tanker, a bulk carrier, and a chemical tanker — were each carried out on behalf of different law firms, based on a list of detained vessels published by Singapore’s judiciary.
The Three Arrests at a Glance
Volta River — 105,800 DWT Tanker
The first vessel to be detained was the tanker Volta River, arrested at 8:02 PM on March 31 on behalf of Watershed Law LLC. As reported by Ship & Bunker, the vessel is currently being held at the Eastern Bunkering Anchorage B.
Lonnie — 177,700 DWT Bulk Carrier
Two days later, the bulk carrier Lonnie was arrested at 11:19 AM on April 2, this time on behalf of Ming Law Asia LLC. The vessel is being held at the Eastern Special Purpose Anchorage A.
UACC Shamiya — 45,500 DWT Chemical Tanker
The third and final arrest in this series came early on the morning of April 3, when the chemical tanker UACC Shamiya was detained at 6:57 AM on behalf of LVM Law Chambers LLC. This vessel is also being held at the Eastern Special Purpose Anchorage A.
Reasons Not Disclosed
Ship & Bunker notes that the specific grounds for each arrest have not been made public. The publication adds that vessel arrests of this nature are typically associated with maritime claims, which may include disputes over unpaid bunkers or other operational services.
The incidents take place at the world’s largest bunkering hub, where legal mechanisms for vessel detention are well-established and regularly utilised by creditors and claimants seeking to secure their interests.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
