Crime Institute
Crime · ModuleRISK · HIGH
Maritime Crime
Illegal activities at sea including piracy, armed robbery against ships, smuggling, IUU fishing and pollution offences.
OVERVIEW
Global picture
IMB recorded 120 piracy incidents in 2024, up 12% year-on-year. Gulf of Guinea remains the most dangerous piracy hotspot despite 2024 reduction.
CURRENT SITUATION
What's happening now
Houthi Red Sea attacks disrupted 14% of global shipping in 2024. West-African piracy shifted to smaller vessels. IUU fishing convergence with drug and arms trafficking rising.
Piracy incidents
120
IMB 2024
Red Sea attacks
150+
Houthi 2024
IUU fishing
20%
of global catch
UNCLOS parties
168
MAJOR ACTORS / NETWORKS
Key organizations
Gulf of Guinea groupsMalacca Strait syndicatesSomali piracy remnantsIUU distant-water fleets
MOST AFFECTED
Countries & regions
NigeriaYemen (Red Sea)Malacca StraitSomaliaGulf of Aden
TRENDS
Evolving patterns
Drone-launched attacks (Red Sea)
Ship-to-ship container smuggling
Autonomous surface vessels
LEGAL FRAMEWORK
International conventions
- UNCLOS 1982
- SUA Convention 1988
- ReCAAP
- Djibouti Code of Conduct
PREVENTION
Response strategies
- Coordinated maritime patrols (EUNAVFOR)
- AIS transponder mandates
- Port State Measures Agreement
RELATED MODULES