IMB Reports ‘Sharp Fall’ in Global Maritime Piracy Incidents in First Quarter of 2026
Chennai:
Port Wings News Network:
The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reported a sharp fall in global maritime piracy and armed robbery incidents in the first quarter of 2026, with figures dropping to their lowest Q1 level since 1991.
Between January and March 2026, 16 incidents were reported worldwide, down from 45 in Q1 2025 and 33 in Q1 2024. The incidents included 14 vessels boarded, one hijacking and one attempted attack.
In most cases, perpetrators were able to access the vessel, with successful boardings recorded in 94% of incidents. While the overall number of incidents fell significantly, risks to crews have not disappeared.
John W.H. Denton AO, ICC Secretary General, said, “Most of the world’s commerce travels by sea. Keeping key routes safe is therefore not just a maritime issue. It’s a confidence issue for the global economy.”
Michael Howlett, IMB Director, said, “It is very positive to see reported maritime piracy and armed robbery incidents fall to their lowest first quarter levels since 1991 . This evidences the positive effects of timely reporting and sustained cooperation, but continued vigilance is essential to keep seafarers safe and shipping routes secure.”
Crew safety remains a concern
During the first three months of 2026, two crew members were taken hostage and one was injured.
Weapons were reported in a number of incidents, with knives identified in seven cases and guns in two incidents during the reporting period.
Sharp decline in Singapore Straits incidents
The Singapore Straits continued to account for the largest share of reported incidents globally, with eight incidents recorded in Q1 2026. While this remains the highest concentration worldwide, it marks a substantial drop from 31 incidents in the same period last year.
Most incidents in the Singapore Straits were considered low-level and opportunistic, though weapons were reported in six cases. In two separate incidents, one crew member was taken hostage and another injured. All targeted vessels were successfully boarded, including two bulk carriers over 150,000 DWT.
IMB notes that the decline reflects ongoing cooperation and enforcement efforts by regional authorities, while stressing that vessels should continue to remain alert and report incidents promptly.
Increase in incidents reported in the Philippines
Four incidents were reported in the Philippines during the first quarter of 2026. Two occurred at Manila anchorage and two at Bauan anchorage in Batangas Bay. This marks an increase compared with no incidents reported during the same period in 2025.
In these incidents, one crew member was taken hostage. IMB continues to encourage close cooperation between regional authorities and the shipping industry to improve crew safety in these waters.
Somali maritime piracy activity continues
Two incidents were reported off Somalia in Q1 2026 – one attempted attack and one successful hijacking.
IMB continues to warn vessel owners and masters against complacency and urges strict adherence to the latest Best Management Practices (BMP) when transiting these waters.
Gulf of Guinea sees lowest activity
There was welcome relief in the Gulf of Guinea, with one low-level theft reported at Takoradi anchorage in Ghana during the quarter.
While the reduction in incidents is encouraging, IMB stresses the importance of continued vigilance and sustained cooperation to protect seafarers and safeguard trade in these waters.
Importance of reporting
IMB again highlights the importance of timely reporting to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC). Prompt reporting enables faster responses, helps prevent further incidents, and improves safety for vessels operating nearby.
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is the institutional representative of more than 45 million companies in over 170 countries. ICC’s core mission is to make business work for everyone, every day, everywhere. Through a unique mix of advocacy, solutions and standard setting, ICC promote international trade, responsible business conduct and a global approach to regulation, in addition to providing market-leading dispute resolution services.
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