Global maritime piracy incidents saw a slight decline in 2024, but the safety of ship crews remains a significant concern. According to the IMB’s annual report, there were 116 attacks on ships in 2024, compared to 120 in 2023 and 115 in 2022. Nonetheless, the increase in the number of hostages and the use of weapons highlights the need for enhanced vigilance and international cooperation.
The report provides a detailed breakdown, noting 94 ships boarded, 13 attempted attacks, six hijackings, and three incidents involving firearms. While the overall number of incidents has decreased, the number of crew members taken hostage nearly doubled, rising from 73 in 2023 to 126 in 2024. Additionally, 12 crew members were kidnapped compared to 14 in 2023, and another 12 were threatened. The use of weapons has escalated, with 26 firearm-related incidents reported in 2024, up from 15 in 2023, alongside 39 incidents involving knives.
In the Gulf of Guinea, incidents fell to 18 in 2024 from 22 in 2023 and 35 in 2021. However, the region still accounted for 23% of global hostage cases and all 12 recorded kidnappings in 2024. The area’s vulnerability requires ongoing attention, with regional and international naval forces playing a crucial role. Michael Howlett, IMB Director, emphasised that there is no room for complacency, urging shipmasters and operators to adhere strictly to Best Management Practices (BMPs) to protect crews and vessels.
In contrast, the Singapore Strait saw an increase in incidents, rising to 43 in 2024 from 37 in 2023. In 93% of cases, targeted vessels were boarded, including large ships exceeding 100,000 deadweight tonnes. These attacks predominantly occurred at night, with a marked rise in weapon use: eight incidents involving firearms and 19 involving knives. Meanwhile, the Indonesian archipelago recorded 22 incidents, up from 18 in 2023. Two of these were classified as piracy, with crew members taken hostage and cargo stolen. Bangladesh experienced its highest number of incidents in a decade, with 14 cases reported, 13 of which occurred in Chattogram.
Eight incidents were reported off East Africa, including the hijacking of two fishing vessels and a container ship. Although Somali piracy has diminished, the threat persists, with pirates retaining the capacity to strike up to 1,000 nautical miles from the coast. The IMB urges shipmasters to follow BMP guidelines and maintain constant vigilance.
