The IMB Piracy Reporting Centre recorded 16 incidents between January and March 2026, with Southeast Asia continuing to dominate the global count as Somali and Gulf of Guinea waters show signs of improvement.
We have received the Q1 2026 Piracy and Armed Robbery Report from the International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Centre (IMB PRC). The summary below highlights key developments by region. For full details, please refer to the attached media release.
Overview
A total of 16 incidents were reported to the IMB PRC between January and March 2026 — comprising 14 boardings, one hijacking, and one attempted attack. Violence directed at crews persists, with two crew members taken hostage and one injured during the quarter. Most incidents occurred while vessels were underway and steaming.
Incidents by vessel status when attacked
| Status when attacked | Attempted | Boarded | Hijacked | Grand Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchored | — | 6 | — | 6 |
| Steaming | 1 | 8 | 1 | 10 |
| Grand Total | 1 | 14 | 1 | 16 |
Incidents by region
| Region | Attempted | Boarded | Hijacked | Grand Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Africa (Somalia) | 1 | — | 1 | 2 |
| Africa (Gulf of Guinea) | — | 1 | — | 1 |
| Rest of the World | — | 1 | — | 1 |
| SE Asia | — | 12 | — | 12 |
| Grand Total | 1 | 14 | 1 | 16 |
Regional Breakdown
Somalia
Two incidents were reported off the Somali coast in Q1 2026 — one attempted attack and one successful hijacking of a dhow, which was subsequently used as a mother vessel. While coalition forces continue to provide a meaningful deterrent, Masters are urged to remain alert and follow the latest Best Management Practices. Pirates in this region retain the capability to strike vessels at significant distances from shore.
Gulf of Guinea
There is cautious optimism in the Gulf of Guinea, where only a single low-level theft was recorded at Takoradi anchorage in Ghana during the quarter. While this is an encouraging development, the IMB continues to stress the importance of sustained vigilance and international cooperation to protect seafarers in these waters.
Singapore Straits
The Singapore Straits remain the most active hotspot globally, accounting for 12 of the 16 total incidents this quarter. While this figure is significant, it represents a substantial decline from 31 incidents recorded during the same period last year. The IMB notes that the reporting and response to incidents is a shared responsibility involving regional authorities and the maritime industry alike.
Philippines
Four incidents were recorded in Philippine waters during Q1 2026 — two at Manila anchorage and two at Batangas Bay. This contrasts sharply with the same period in 2025, when no incidents were reported. One crew member was taken hostage during these incidents, highlighting the need for heightened precautions at Philippine anchorages.
The IMB emphasises that while the overall reduction in incidents is encouraging, the threat to seafarers remains real. Continued vigilance, adherence to Best Management Practices, and robust cooperation between governments, regional bodies, and the maritime industry are essential to sustaining and building on this progress.