Maritime Piracy Surge Off Somali Coast Raises Concerns

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has sounded the alarm on a resurgence of maritime piracy off the coast of Somalia in the first quarter of 2024. The IMB’s latest report reveals a troubling escalation in piracy incidents globally, with particular emphasis on the Somali region.

During the initial three months of 2024, there were 33 recorded incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships worldwide, marking a significant increase from the 27 incidents reported during the same period in 2023. Among these incidents, pirates boarded 24 vessels, attempted attacks on six, hijacked two, and even fired upon one. Equally concerning is the spike in violence directed towards crew members, with 35 individuals taken hostage, nine kidnapped, and one threatened.

Of particular concern are the incidents involving Somali pirates, who have demonstrated an enhanced ability to target vessels at greater distances from the Somali coast. This worrying trend is underscored by the hijacking of the Bangladesh-flagged bulk carrier M/V Abdullah on March 12, where over 20 Somali pirates seized the vessel and its 23 crew members while it was approximately 550 nautical miles from Mogadishu.

The IMB has expressed grave concern over the reported hijackings of dhows and fishing vessels, which are often utilized by pirates as mother ships to launch attacks far from the Somali coastline. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton emphasized the importance of safeguarding trade routes and the safety of seafarers, highlighting the critical role played by maritime security in ensuring the smooth flow of commerce.

While acknowledging the efforts of authorities in responding to piracy threats, the IMB singled out the Indian Navy for its notable operation in March, which resulted in the capture of 35 Somali pirates and the release of a previously hijacked vessel along with its 17 crew members. IMB Director Michael Howlett stressed the importance of vessel owners and Masters adhering to recommended guidelines outlined in the latest version of the Best Management Practices (BMP 5) to mitigate piracy risks.

Despite the concerning spike in Somali pirate activity, incidents in the Gulf of Guinea waters have seen a relatively reduced level, with six reported in Q1 2024 compared to five during the same period in 2023. However, caution remains paramount due to the persistent threat of piracy and armed robbery, exemplified by the recent kidnapping of nine crew members from a tanker in January 2024.

Furthermore, there has been a noticeable rise in low-level opportunistic crimes in Bangladeshi waters and the Singapore Straits in 2024, posing a significant threat to crew safety, with incidents of hostage-taking being reported.

In light of these developments, it is imperative for maritime stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the growing menace of piracy. Enhanced cooperation between international maritime organisations, naval forces, and coastal states is essential to effectively combatting piracy and ensuring the safety and security of seafarers navigating the world’s oceans.

For further information or to speak to one of our maritime security experts, contact us at enquiries@priavosecurity.com or call +44 (0) 20 7315 4221.