Piracy and armed robbery against ships globally have decreased to their lowest level in over three decades. According to the latest quarterly report, the total number of piracy incidents in the first nine months of 2026 has reached 51, a significant decrease from 116 incidents in the same period last year.
Increase in Piracy Activities in the Horn of Africa
Despite the overall decrease in incidents, piracy activities off the Horn of Africa, particularly by Somali pirates, have sharply increased. In the first nine months of this year, eight incidents of ship hijacking by Somali pirates have been recorded, and this group has been responsible for 94 percent of crew kidnappings globally.
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Reports indicate that 105 crew members have been threatened or harmed during this period, an increase from 72 last year. Of these 105, 90 were taken hostage and 5 were killed.
Preventive Measures Against Piracy
Despite the increasing risks, the IMB (International Maritime Bureau) advises shipowners to continue adhering strictly to best management practices (BMP) recommendations. These recommendations include security measures and preparedness to counter piracy attacks.
In total, 36 ships were attacked, eight ships were hijacked, and in 86 percent of incidents, attackers successfully boarded the vessels. Most of these incidents occurred at night, and bulk cargo ships remain the primary targets for pirates and armed robbers.
While piracy and armed robbery have decreased in other dangerous areas such as the Singapore Strait and the Gulf of Guinea, the Horn of Africa is recognized as a new piracy hotspot. The IMB has also noted the efforts of coastal countries in reducing piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, with only two incidents reported in the first nine months of 2026.
Overall, this report indicates significant progress in the fight against piracy and armed robbery, but warns that threats still exist and the need for vigilance and preparedness remains high.
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