IMB records 38 piracy and armed robbery incidents in first half of 2026 as crew safety concerns remain
Maritime piracy and armed robbery incidents against ships declined to their lowest level in more than three decades during the first half of 2026, but security risks for seafarers remain, according to the latest report by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).
The IMB piracy report 2026 recorded 38 incidents worldwide between January and June, a significant decrease from 90 incidents during the same period in 2025 and 60 incidents in 2024. Despite the decline, the report warned that continued vigilance is necessary as piracy threats, particularly in waters off Somalia, remain active.
During the first six months of the year, 27 vessels were boarded, five were hijacked, three came under fire and three attempted attacks were reported.
The incidents affected crew members directly, with 67 seafarers taken hostage, two threatened and one injured during piracy-related attacks.
Somali Piracy Remains a Concern
The IMB said Somali pirates accounted for 94% of all crew hostage cases recorded globally during the period, highlighting their continued ability to target different types of vessels in the region.
Four vessels were hijacked near Somalia between April and May 2026, while additional approaches and attempted attacks were reported in June.
IMB Director Michael Howlett said the reduction in incidents reflected the impact of cooperation between governments, law enforcement agencies and the maritime industry, but warned that crew safety remained a concern.
He said the renewed activity linked to Somali piracy showed that regional cooperation and continued security measures were still essential to protect seafarers, shipping routes and global trade.
Gulf of Guinea, Singapore Straits See Decline
The Gulf of Guinea recorded only two piracy-related incidents in the first half of 2026, with the IMB crediting regional security efforts and cooperation among coastal states for improving maritime safety.
The Singapore Straits also saw a decline in reported incidents, with two vessels boarded in April and one each in May and June.
During these incidents, two crew members were threatened, two were held hostage temporarily and one crew member was injured.
The IMB said stronger coordination between countries bordering major shipping routes remains important to further reduce maritime crime and protect international commerce.
Manila Anchorage Incidents Rise
While global piracy figures declined, incidents increased at Manila Anchorage during the first half of 2026.
The IMB reported eight incidents in the area, compared with none during the same period in 2025. Three vessels were boarded in June by individuals armed with guns and knives.
The bureau urged ship operators and masters to remain alert and report all actual, attempted or suspected piracy incidents promptly.
According to the IMB, timely reporting helps authorities respond faster, improve maritime security measures and protect vessels operating in affected regions.
The IMB Piracy Reporting Centre, established in 1991, continues to serve as a global reporting platform for piracy and armed robbery incidents, providing alerts and information to ships and maritime authorities.
