Globally, the crime of piracy and armed robbery reached 90 reported incidents, a 50 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024 and the highest number of reported incidents for the same period since 2020, according to the newly released report by the ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Piracy Reporting Centre.
Of the incidents reported, 79 vessels were boarded, six attempted attacks, four hijackings and one vessel fired upon. Concern for crew well-being continues with 40 crew taken hostage, 16 kidnapped, five threatened and three each assaulted and injured.
The Singapore Straits recorded 57 incidents and accounts for roughly 63 per cent of total globally reported incidents. Fifteen incidents were reported in these waters during the first half of 2024.
The IMB said the boarding of large vessels exceeding 150,000 DWT in this narrow and congested waterway remains a significant concern, particularly given the 95 per cent success rate of boardings in the Singapore Strait. Although relatively low-level incidents, this risk is further compounded by the continued use of guns and knives in 35 of the 57 reported incidents.
Crew safety and well-being also remain fragile, with 13 crewmembers held hostage during incidents, five threatened, three injured, and one assaulted.
"The Singapore Strait is a critical shipping route, with ships carrying roughly 30 per cent of global trade," said IMB Director Michael Howlett. "This rise in incidents is deeply concerning as it puts the safety of our seafarers and the security of international commerce at risk."
The IMB said that, despite lower incident numbers, the Gulf of Guinea continues to pose significant risks to crew safety and remains a region where continued caution is essential. The region recorded 12 incidents and accounted for 87 per cent of all crew kidnappings globally in the first half of 2025.
While no new incidents have been reported off Somalia since April 2025, Somalia waters maintain a continued threat of potential piratical incidents, particularly as the Southwest Monsoon subsides in the coming months.
The IMB continues to encourage all seafarers transiting waters known for piratical and armed robbery incidents to exercise vigilance and follow the recommended practices outlined in the latest best management practices.