Global Rise in Maritime Piracy During First Quarter of 2025
The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has reported a sharp increase in global maritime piracy and armed robbery against ships during the first quarter of 2025. The most alarming surge occurred in the Singapore Straits, where piracy incidents have significantly outpaced those of the previous year. This region now stands as a critical hotspot amid growing concern for crew safety.
A total of 45 incidents were recorded globally between January and March 2025:
- 37 successful boardings
- Four hijackings
- Four attempted attacks
The human toll is also notable:
- 37 seafarers held hostage
- 13 kidnapped
- Two threatened
- One injured
Singapore Straits Account for Majority of Reported Attacks
The Singapore Straits have emerged as the epicenter of maritime insecurity in early 2025. The IMB recorded 27 incidents in these narrow waters, a dramatic rise from the seven incidents reported during the same period in 2024.
“The reported rise of incidents in the Singapore Straits is concerning, highlighting the urgent need to protect the safety of seafarers navigating these waters,” said IMB Director Michael Howlett.
This busy shipping route, which serves as a critical link between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, is particularly vulnerable due to heavy traffic and limited maneuvering space.
Piracy Persists in Gulf of Guinea and Off Somali Coast
Despite a decline in historical trends, the Gulf of Guinea continues to present serious risks. Two recent attacks led to the kidnapping of 13 crew members:
- 10 kidnapped from a bitumen tanker near Sao Tome and Principe
- Three kidnapped from a fishing vessel south of Ghana
In East Africa, piracy off the Somali coast is also showing signs of resurgence. Between February and March 2025, three vessels were hijacked, with 26 crew members taken hostage. Fortunately, all crew members and ships have since been released.
The IMB has urged all ships operating in high-risk zones—including the Singapore Straits, Gulf of Guinea, and Somalia—to adhere strictly to Industry Best Management Practices (BMP). With piracy on the rise, regional cooperation and proactive onboard security remain essential to protecting global maritime commerce.
