Danish Shipping has raised concerns over a resurgence of piracy activity off the coast of Somalia, according to Ship & Bunker. The organization reported that 13 piracy-related incidents were recorded in the first seven months of 2026, a notable increase compared to the eight incidents logged throughout all of 2024 and five in 2025, based on data from the ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB).
Despite the uptick, current activity remains far below the levels seen during the height of Somali piracy between 2009 and 2011, when more than 200 attacks were reported annually, Ship & Bunker noted. Still, the recent numbers suggest a shift that has drawn attention from industry leaders.
Deputy CEO Voices Concern
Jacob K. Clasen, Deputy CEO of Danish Shipping, said in an emailed statement reported by Ship & Bunker that the rising figures were troubling. “Of course, I am concerned when I see that the number of piracy-related incidents off Somalia is rising. It brings back unpleasant memories,” Clasen said.
Clasen urged shipping companies to carry out risk assessments and adhere to international Best Management Practices guidelines, according to the report.
Additional Incident Reported
Ship & Bunker also noted that a further pirate attack on a cargo vessel off Somalia was reported this week, though the incident has not yet been incorporated into the IMB’s official figures.
Danish Shipping pointed to a combination of factors that may be fueling the renewed activity, including drought conditions, illegal fishing, economic hardship, and weak governmental structures in the region, as reported by Ship & Bunker. The organization also noted that Somali pirates continue to target vulnerable vessels, with fishing boats frequently seized and used as mother ships to launch attacks further out to sea.
Does This Matter to You?
For those planning or managing vessel transits through the Gulf of Aden and waters off Somalia, this reported rise in incidents may warrant closer attention to routing and risk assessment practices. Vessel operators and charterers navigating the region could find value in reviewing current Best Management Practices guidance, as recommended by Danish Shipping.
The source material does not provide specifics on vessel types most recently targeted beyond a general reference to fishing vessels being used as mother ships, nor does it detail geographic hotspots within Somali waters. Readers seeking operational guidance should consult additional advisories, as the direct implications for bunkering and broader vessel operations beyond this reported trend are not detailed in the source material.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
