AFP/IMO analysis: piracy off Somalia surges in 2026, highest levels since 2013
On 27 August 2026 an AFP analysis of International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports found at least 15 piracy attacks off Somalia and nearby waters since the start of 2026, with eight incidents in the Gulf of Aden since May — the highest regional level recorded since 2013.
The desk brief
On 27 August 2026 an AFP analysis of International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports found at least 15 piracy attacks off Somalia and nearby waters since the start of 2026, with eight incidents in the Gulf of Aden since May — the highest regional level recorded since 2013.
A renewed concentration of pirate attacks in the Gulf of Aden raises the risk environment for vessels transiting the Suez-Indian Ocean corridor. If sustained, insurers and charterers may reassess route and security premiums and shipping firms could adopt longer, costlier routings or extra protection measures, increasing trade costs for corridor-dependent African exporters and importers.
Follow IMB/IMO incident updates, national maritime advisories and regional naval coordination centre notices over the next 30 days.
Sources & verification
Developing storyFurther independent confirmation is required.
- Piracy attacks off Somalia surge in 2026: AFP analysis of IMO dataafpSource published (opens in a new tab)
- Global Maritime Piracy: Updates And Risk Trends As Of Mid-August 2026maritimenews.comSource published (opens in a new tab)
Public references supporting this brief.