The London-based International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has reported 60 instances of piracy on the world's seas in the first half of 2024.
The tally is similar to previous years, with 65 recorded over the same period last year, 58 in 2022 and 68 in 2021.
The IMB, which is part of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), said in a press release on Thursday that violence against crew members has risen markedly in 2024. An estimated 85 people taken hostage in the first half of the year, up from 36 over the same period in 2023.
While overall piracy incidents are down, "there is no room for complacency," IMB Director Michael Howlett warned.
According to the IMB figures, the most dangerous region was the Singapore Strait, which saw 13 incidents. Next was Indonesia with 12, ahead of Bangladesh with 10 and Somalia with seven. In 84% of cases, pirates were able to successfully board or hijack ships.
“We continue to urge caution around Somali piracy incidents," Howlett said. He called on ship owners to "harden their vessels" and follow guidelines and best practices when travelling through Somali waters.