Maritime piracy and armed robbery incidents fell to their lowest level since 1992 in the first half of 2026, according to the latest report from ICC’s International Maritime Bureau (IMB). However, IMB warns there is no room for complacency, with crew safety still at risk and a slight resurgence of Somali piracy underscoring the need for continued vigilance.
The report was released on 9 July.
38 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships were recorded in the first half of 2026, a decrease from ninety incidents for the same period in 2025 and sixty in 2024. From January to June, 27 vessels were boarded, five hijacked, three fired upon and three attempted attacks.
Also read: Lowest first-quarter piracy figures since 1991
Uptick of Somali piracy
Despite the lowest mid-year figures since 1992, danger to crew continues with 67 crew taken hostage, two threatened, and one injured. The IMB reports that Somali pirates were responsible for 94 per cent of all crew taken hostage, demonstrating their continued capability to board all types of vessels and the escalation of activities in the waters off Somalia.
Four vessels were hijacked in the region between April and May 2026, while additional attacks and approaches were reported in June. IMB and ICC are urging international naval forces to maintain a strong and visible deterrent presence in the region to counter any potential escalation.
IMB Director Michael Howlett: ‘The lowest mid-year level of reported piracy and armed robbery incidents since 1992 is encouraging and reflects the impact of sustained efforts by governments, law enforcement agencies and the maritime community. However, there is no room for complacency. Crew safety remains at risk, and the slight uptick of Somali piracy is a reminder that continued vigilance and regional cooperation remain essential to protect seafarers, global shipping and trade.’
Also read: Piracy and armed robbery on the rise in 2025
Welcome reduction in Gulf of Guinea and Singapore Straits
With only two reported incidents in the Gulf of Guinea during the first half of 2026, IMB commends the efforts of littoral states and regional partners to strengthen maritime security. While this progress is encouraging, IMB reiterates the need for continued patrols and regional cooperation to deter criminal activity and safeguard life at sea.
A decline in incidents was also reported in the Singapore Straits from January to June with two vessels boarded in April and one each in May and June. Two crew were threatened in separate incidents, while a further two crew were taken hostage for the duration of an incident and one crew injured. As one of the world’s busiest trade routes and a key artery connecting East and West, enhanced engagement and coordinated enforcement measures among littoral states remain essential to further reduce incidents and ensure the safety of seafarers and global commerce.
Also read: Surge in piracy and robbery in Singapore Straits persists
Incidents in Manila
Reported incidents at Manila Anchorage increased during the first half of 2026, with three vessels boarded by perpetrators armed with guns and knives while at anchor in June alone. The eight incidents reported during the period compare with no incidents during the same period in 2025.
‘We continue to urge masters and ship operators to report all incidents promptly. Timely reporting enables faster responses, helps prevent further incidents and improves the safety of crew and vessels operating nearby,’ states Howlett.
Image by IMB.
