Global incidents of piracy and armed attacks on ships fell to their lowest level since 1992 in the first half of 2026. This is according to the IMB’s half-yearly report.
Despite this positive trend, the IMB warns against underestimating the threat: the safety of crews remains at risk, and pirate activity has increased again, particularly off the coast of Somalia.
From January to June 2026, 38 incidents were recorded worldwide. In the corresponding period of 2025, the figure was 90, and in 2024 a total of 60. The figures included 27 boardings, five ship hijackings, three attacks involving firearms and three attempted attacks. During these incidents, 67 crew members were taken hostage, two were threatened and one person was injured.
“The historic decline in piracy incidents is a success resulting from close cooperation between states, law enforcement agencies and the maritime industry,” explains Oliver Wieck, Secretary General of ICC Germany. “However, this should not obscure the fact that the threat remains. The latest incidents off the coast of Somalia show that an international presence, consistent security measures and continued vigilance remain indispensable.”
Somali piracy remains a threat
The IMB is particularly concerned about developments off the coast of Somalia. Between April and May, four ships were hijacked there, with further attacks and attempted abordages following in June. According to the IMB, 94% of all hostage-takings in the first half of the year were carried out by Somali pirates. This highlights that they remain capable of attacking a wide variety of vessel types. The IMB and the ICC are therefore calling on international naval forces to maintain their presence in the region in order to prevent a renewed escalation.
Positive developments in the Gulf of Guinea and the Strait of Singapore
In the Gulf of Guinea, only two incidents were reported in the first half of the year. The IMB acknowledges the progress made by coastal states and their regional partners in improving maritime security, but emphasises the need for further joint measures and patrols.
The number of incidents also fell in the Strait of Singapore. Between January and June, four ships were boarded there. Given the importance of this shipping route for global trade, the IMB continues to call for close cooperation between the coastal states to ensure the long-term security of one of the world’s most important trade routes.
More incidents off Manila
The situation off the anchorage of Manila is different. Eight incidents were recorded there in the first half of the year – compared with none at all in the same period last year. In June alone, three ships were boarded by armed assailants. The IMB is therefore urging shipmasters to exercise particular caution in this area.
