Maritime crime drops but threat persists
Maritime kidnappings now represent the biggest threat to seafarers after the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reported that incidents of piracy dropped to their lowest rate for nearly 20 years in 2016.
While piracy and armed robbery is on the decline with 191 incidents reported, more crew were kidnapped at sea last year than at any time during the past ten years. Figures showed a threefold increase on the previous year.
A total of 62 crew were kidnapped for ransom in 15 incidents with half of those taking place off West Africa, while 28 were kidnapped from tugs, barges, fishing boats
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns]()
UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
-
![As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?]()
As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
-
![US Navy to invest more than $700 million in laser-related R&D efforts in FY2026]()
US Navy to invest more than $700 million in laser-related R&D efforts in FY2026
The US Navy’s acceleration of its laser weapon development initiatives reflects a decisive shift towards ultimately having a “laser on every ship” across tomorrow’s surface fleet.
