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Recently FOBAS tested several residual fuel samples from Singapore, that exceeded the 60 mg/kg limit, for Aluminium + Silicon as stipulated in the ISO 8217:2010/12/17 specification. The fuels tested had values of these catfines, ranging between 74 to 97 mg/kg.

As stated, Al+Si content at these concentrations may not readily reduce to acceptable levels (< 15 mg/kg at the engine inlet) by means of normal onboard treatment. Carryover of abrasive Al+Si material may lead to damage to fuel pumps/injectors and cylinder components.

If ships are planning to bunker in Singapore, then it is suggested that the supplier is asked to provide a certificate of quality of the particular stem to ensure that the Aluminium + Silicon concentration is known at the time of bunkering and within the limits of the stipulated grade.

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Ukraine launched a large-scale drone attack on Russia on August 24, targeting multiple regions including Russia’s Ust-Luga fuel export terminal. 

According to Reuters, Russian officials reported that at least 95 drones were intercepted across multiple regions. A major strike hit Russia’s Ust-Luga fuel export terminal on the Gulf of Finland, where drone debris caused a fire at the Novatek-operated complex, one of the country’s largest Baltic fuel hubs.

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On 26 August, the Thanh Thanh Dat 99, a Vietnam-flagged cargo vessel run aground after it encountered severe weather while en route from Tinh Long port to Nghi Son port in Vietnam.

Strong winds and heavy seas, influenced by Tropical Storm Kajiki, prevented the ship from anchoring near its destination. The Sam Son Border Guard Station detected the vessel drifting without signal lights about 2 nautical miles off Tien Trang Commune. Despite efforts to stabilize, the waves pushed the ship ashore around 1:30 a.m. on August 26, grounding it just 70–100 meters from Binh village’s coastline.

The captain promptly contacted the Nghi Son Port Authority for assistance, while the Vietnam Border Guard Force and local authorities quickly mobilized to secure the scene.

All 19 crew members on board were confirmed safe, and no oil spills or pollution were detected.

Currently, the Sam Son Border Guard Station, in coordination with relevant agencies, is monitoring the grounded vessel and implementing safety measures to protect both crew and equipment.

Authorities plan to refloat the Thanh Thanh Dat 99 once weather conditions improve.

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Over the past week, 19-25 August no incident of piracy or armed robbery against ships in Asia.

Ships shall to continue to intensify vigilance, maintain a sharp look-out while anchoring or transiting areas of concern, including the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and report all incidents to the law enforcement agencies immediately; and the littoral States to increase patrols and enforcement in these areas.

Situation of abduction of crew in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah

Situation update