Int’l maritime group confirms piracy spike in Gulf of Guinea
The latest piracy report from the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has revealed a rise in reported incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, as well as ‘worrying signs’ for the Singapore Straits.
The report showed an increase in reported incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, with 21 incidents recorded in the first nine months of 2023, compared to 14 incidents during the same period in 2022. Among these incidents, 17 were classified as armed robberies and four as piracy. The safety of crew members is a mounting concern, as 54 were taken hostage, 14 were kidnapped, and two were injured.
IMB Director Michael Howlett expressed concern over the rise in reported incidents in the Gulf of Guinea.
“The Gulf of Guinea stands as a region of concern with a rise in reported incidents, as opposed to the downward trend we have seen in the past two years. The IMB sees regional ownership as critical to safeguard shipping and trade and to address these crimes,” Howlett said.
IMB emphasized the importance of early reporting of incidents, even low-level opportunistic ones, to protect seafarers and ensure the safety of regional and international shipping and trade. The organization commended local authorities for their efforts in investigating nearly all reported incidents.
