Warning! Sharp Increase in Piracy Incidents in This Region

Maritime security and risk analysis firm Risk Intelligence has released its Q2 2025 report on security incidents in Asian waters. While geopolitical tensions persist, pirate attacks and armed robberies remain the primary maritime security threat in Southeast Asia.

Key Findings:

1. Singapore Strait Emerges as Hotspot

• Boarding incidents in the Singapore Strait surged by 309% YoY (45 cases in Q2 2025 vs. 11 in Q2 2024).

• 2025 YTD total: 82 cases (up 257% from 23 in H1 2024).

• Now accounts for 85% of all Southeast Asian piracy (vs. 52% in 2024).

2. Changing Target Profile

• Bulk carriers remain most vulnerable (58% of Q2 attacks).

• Container ships now targeted (8 incidents in 2025 after 10-year lull).

• All attackers armed with knives or fake firearms.

3. Regional Contrasts

• Outside Singapore Strait: 29% decrease in incidents (15 vs. 21 in H1 2024).

• No cargo ship hijackings since 2017 (except tug/barge operations).

Underlying Causes:

• Weak Indonesian enforcement in overlapping territorial waters.

• Shift from seasonal patterns to chronic security gaps.

Operational Impacts:

• Shipping companies deploying razor wire on sterns as deterrent.

• Crew safety concerns escalate despite no recent kidnappings.

Industry Advice:
✔ Maintain strict anti-piracy watch in Singapore Strait
✔ Implement BMP5 security measures
✔ Coordinate with regional reporting centers