ICC IMB: Pronounced spike in low-level crimes in Singapore Straits for Q1 2025

The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) recently revealed a rise in global piracy and armed robbery incidents in the first quarter of 2025 – driven by a spike of incidents in the Singapore Straits. 

A total of 45 cases of piracy and armed robbery against ships were recorded in the first three months of 2025 – an almost 35% increase compared to the same period in 2024.  

Of the incidents reported, 37 vessels were boarded, four were hijacked and four had attempted attacks. The threat to crew safety remains high with 37 crew members taken hostage, 13 kidnapped, two threatened and one injured.

Rise of incidents in Singapore Straits

The Q1 report highlights a spike in recorded incidents in the Singapore Straits as 27 incidents were reported from vessels transiting these waters compared to seven for the same period in 2024. 

While most incidents were considered low-level opportunistic crimes, crew members were at great risk with guns reported in 14 incidents. In 2024, guns were reported in 26 incidents globally. Ten crew members were taken hostage in six separate incidents, two were threatened and one was reported injured.

Ninety-two percent of all vessels targeted in the Singapore Straits were successfully boarded, including nine bulk carriers and tankers over 100,000 deadweight tonnage in size. 

IMB Director Michael Howlett, said: “The reported rise of incidents in the Singapore Straits is concerning, highlighting the urgent need to protect the safety of seafarers navigating these waters. Ensuring the security of these vital routes is essential and all necessary measures must be taken to safeguard crew members.”

Note: The full summary of the IMB Piracy Report for January to March 2025 can be read here. 

Photo credit: The ICC International Maritime Bureau
Published: 21 April, 2025