Global maritime piracy experienced a troubling escalation in the first quarter of 2025, with 45 confirmed attacks compared to 33 in the same period of 2024. This is highlighted in the quarterly report from the International Maritime Bureau, which attributes the rise primarily to a spike in incidents in the Singapore Strait. This narrow and heavily trafficked waterway has seen the number of attacks soar from 7 in early 2024 to 27 in the first quarter of 2025, marking a dramatic 286% increase. Of particular concern is the growing use of firearms by pirates, with 14 reported cases involving guns or rifles, indicating a shift from the more traditional use of knives and clubs in such assaults.
Globally, the majority of attacks involved actual boardings, which accounted for 82% of incidents, with 37 ships successfully boarded by pirates. Additionally, there were four attempted hijackings and four unsuccessful assaults. The impact on crew members remains severe, with 53 seafarers affected: 37 were taken hostage, 13 kidnapped, two threatened with weapons, and one injured.
While the number of incidents in the Gulf of Guinea has dropped to a record low of just six in the first quarter, this does not signal improved safety for maritime crews. All 13 kidnappings reported in the first three months of 2025 occurred in this region, indicating that pirates are now targeting high-value operations rather than striking frequently. Attention is also returning to Somalia, where three hijackings were recorded between February and March. These involved the temporary capture of 26 crew members, who were later released. The operational capability of Somali criminal groups remains a threat, even if their attacks are less frequent than in the past.
The IMO is urging maritime authorities and shipowners to reinforce preventive measures. In the Singapore Strait, it recommends increased patrolling, better deck lighting at night, and constant situational awareness. In the Gulf of Guinea, naval escorts are advised where possible, while in the Indian Ocean, existing international protocols under BMP-5 continue to be considered effective.
