In 2024, the IMB recorded eight incidents in Somalia, rising to five in 2025. In the first seven months of 2026 alone, 13 incidents have already been recorded

Somalia has seen the highest number of piracy-related incidents in ten years. This suggests a resurgence of activity in the area after several years of relatively few incidents.

A significant increase in the number of attacks carried out by Somali pirates has just been revealed in an analysis by Danish Shipping, based on figures from the ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB). This development is a cause for concern at Danish Shipping.'Of course I am concerned when I see that the number of piracy-related incidents off the coast of Somalia is rising. It brings back unpleasant memories. However, it is worth highlighting that vessels which follow the international Best Management Practices recommendations are generally far less vulnerable to pirate attacks. Shipping companies should carry out a thorough risk assessment and implement the appropriate security measures on that basis,” says Jacob K. Clasen, Danish Shipping's Deputy CEO.

Security measures 

Security measures may include things that stop people getting in, like barbed wire, securing access points, water cannons and CCTV surveillance, as well as better ways to watch, report and be ready for emergencies. In areas with an elevated risk of piracy, an additional layer of protection is often provided by armed guards.

Related: New piracy incident off the coast of Somalia: cargo ship seized.

Renewed activity of piracy in the area

In 2024, the IMB recorded eight incidents in Somalia, rising to five in 2025. In the first seven months of 2026 alone, 13 incidents have already been recorded. Although activity remains low compared to the wave of piracy between 2009 and 2011, when more than 200 attacks were recorded annually, the trend points to renewed activity in the area

Related: Resurgence of Somali Piracy as Three Vessels and 44 Crew Members Held Captive

 Pirate attack this week

Reports of another pirate attack on a cargo vessel off the coast of Somalia have emerged as recently as this week. This incident has not yet been included in the IMB figures."It is an irrefutable fact that the development is being propelled by a multifarious interplay of a plethora of internal and external factors. Within Somalia, challenges such as drought, illegal fishing, economic hardship, and weak government structures may make piracy a more attractive 'career path'. Externally, changes in the maritime security situation in the region may also have created more favourable conditions for renewed pirate activity,” says Jacob K. Clasen.

Somali pirates continue to hijack vulnerable vessels, particularly fishing boats, which they can then use as mother ships to launch attacks further offshore.

Read the full analysis here

#Jacob K. Clasen#Danish Shipping # pirate # CCTV surveillance#IMB #Somali piracy #coast of Somalia