Armed Robberies Surge In Singapore Strait, Hit Highest Level Since 2020

A sharp increase in armed robbery incidents in the Singapore Strait has raised serious concerns for the global shipping community, as the critical trade route now accounts for more than 60% of reported maritime crime worldwide in the first half of 2025.

According to a new report by the ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Piracy Reporting Centre, a total of 90 piracy and armed robbery incidents were reported globally between January and June 2025. This marks a 50% rise compared to the same period in 2024 and is the highest number of cases recorded since 2020.

The report highlights that 79 vessels were boarded, six experienced attempted attacks, four were hijacked, and one vessel was fired upon. Crew safety remains a major concern, with 40 crew members taken hostage, 16 kidnapped, five threatened, and three each injured and assaulted during these incidents.

The Singapore Strait alone reported 57 of the 90 total incidents, a significant rise from the 15 cases reported during the first half of 2024. This narrow and heavily trafficked waterway, which handles roughly 30% of global trade, is seeing increased boarding attempts, even on large vessels over 150,000 deadweight tons (DWT).

The IMB noted that 95% of boarding attempts in the Singapore Strait were successful, which is especially alarming given that guns and knives were used in 34 of the 57 reported incidents.

Seafarers continue to face physical danger, with 13 held hostage, five threatened, three injured, and one assaulted in these waters alone.

An IMB official said the situation in the Singapore Strait is worrying because it directly affects the safety of crews and the security of international trade operations.

Meanwhile, the Gulf of Guinea, though reporting fewer incidents (12), remains dangerous. It was responsible for 87% of all crew kidnappings globally in the same period, indicating that violent attacks continue to threaten crew members in that region.

In waters near Somalia, no new incidents have been reported since April 2025. However, the IMB warns that piracy threats may rise again as the Southwest Monsoon weakens in the coming months, potentially making the waters more accessible to criminal activity.

The IMB continues to urge all ships passing through piracy-prone areas to stay alert and follow safety steps listed in the latest Best Management Practices to reduce risk and protect seafarers.

Reference: iccwbo

Source: Maritime Shipping News