April 13, 2026
Global maritime piracy and crime incidents at lowest level since 1991
The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reported a sharp fall in global maritime piracy and armed robbery incidents in the first quarter of 2026, with figures dropping to their lowest Q1 level since 1991.
Between January and March 2026, 16 incidents were reported worldwide, down from 45 in Q1 2025 and 33 in Q1 2024. The incidents included 14 vessels boarded, one hijacking and one attempted attack.
In most cases, perpetrators were able to access the vessel, with successful boardings recorded in 94% of incidents. While the overall number of incidents fell significantly, risks to crews have not disappeared.
During the first three months of 2026, two crew members were taken hostage and one was injured. Weapons were reported in a number of incidents, with knives identified in seven cases and guns in two incidents during the reporting period.
The Singapore Straits continued to account for the largest share of reported incidents globally, with eight incidents recorded in Q1 2026. While this remains the highest concentration worldwide, it marks a substantial drop from 31 incidents in the same period last year.
Most incidents in the Singapore Straits were considered low-level and opportunistic, though weapons were reported in six cases.
Source: ICC / IMB