Piracy and armed robbery in the Singapore Strait climbed sharply in the first quarter of 2025, rising to 27 reported cases compared to just seven during the same period in 2024, according to the International Maritime Bureau (IMB). This sharp increase highlights growing risks in one of the world’s busiest and most strategic shipping routes.
Opportunistic, but Increasingly Risky
The IMB noted that most of these incidents were “low-level opportunistic crimes,” carried out by small groups rather than organised networks. Still, the threat to crew members is becoming more serious. Firearms were involved in 14 of the cases, reflecting a wider global pattern of rising weapon-related incidents at sea.
Assailants managed to board vessels in 92% of the reported cases, an alarming rate for such a heavily transited corridor. Among the ships targeted were nine large bulk carriers and tankers over 100,000 deadweight tons, showing that even major vessels are vulnerable.
A Call for Stronger Protection Measures
IMB Director Michael Howlett raised concerns over the rising attacks and called for stronger measures to protect seafarers working in this critical waterway. The surge in piracy not only endangers crews but also threatens the smooth flow of global trade due to the Strait’s key role in international shipping.
The findings underline the need for closer cooperation among regional and international partners. Strengthening security and improving surveillance in the Singapore Strait will be essential to safeguard vessels and ensure safe passage for the thousands of ships that rely on this route every year.
