IMO Condemns Continued Hijacking Of Tanker Amid Rising Piracy In Western Indian Ocean
Our take
The recent condemnation by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regarding the continued hijacking of tankers in the Western Indian Ocean highlights an alarming trend in maritime security that requires immediate attention. The plight of the 17 crew members aboard the hijacked vessel underscores the deteriorating humanitarian situation that accompanies such acts of piracy. As noted in the IMO's statement, this incident is not an isolated occurrence but part of a troubling trajectory that has seen maritime piracy resurging in regions previously thought to have stabilized. Related developments, such as the Indian Navy's proactive deployment of the INS Kolkata to deter piracy near the Gulf of Aden, illustrate the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to secure vital shipping lanes and protect those who work within them.
The implications of rising piracy extend beyond immediate threats to crew safety and vessel security. The economic ramifications can be profound, as increased piracy leads to higher insurance premiums and shipping costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers. The Western Indian Ocean is a critical corridor for global trade, making the resurgence of piracy a concern that transcends regional boundaries. Moreover, the humanitarian aspect cannot be overlooked; the conditions faced by kidnapped crew members can be dire, and their experiences often lack adequate coverage in broader discussions about maritime security. As the IMO emphasizes the need for collective action, it is crucial for nations to communicate and collaborate effectively, sharing intelligence and resources to combat this growing menace.
Furthermore, the rising tide of piracy is indicative of broader socio-economic issues in the region. Factors such as poverty, political instability, and weak governance create an environment where piracy can flourish. As highlighted in our report on South Korea's plans to launch its first domestically built nuclear-powered submarine by the mid-2030s, maritime strategy is evolving in response to these threats. Nations are re-evaluating their naval capabilities and investing in technologies that enhance maritime security. This shift reflects an understanding that inaction could lead to increased threats not only to maritime safety but also to national security and economic stability.
Looking ahead, the situation calls for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond military solutions. International cooperation must be coupled with initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of piracy. Enhancing local economies, improving governance, and fostering regional partnerships can help alleviate the conditions that lead individuals to engage in piracy. As stakeholders in ocean stewardship, we must ask ourselves: How can we leverage technology and innovation to better predict, prevent, and respond to piracy incidents? The urgency of this question is compounded by the knowledge that the ocean is a shared resource, and its security is a collective responsibility.
In conclusion, the IMO's condemnation of piracy in the Western Indian Ocean serves as a clarion call for renewed focus on maritime security. The need for a comprehensive and multi-faceted response is more critical than ever. By prioritizing collaboration, innovation, and the well-being of those impacted by piracy, we can work towards a safer and more secure maritime environment for all. As we contemplate the future, the imperative remains: how do we engage effectively as a global community to protect our oceans and those who navigate them?
Somali piracy remains suppressed, but not eradicated, highlights the Chair of the Djibouti Code of Conduct/ Jeddah Amendment (currently South Africa) – a regional initiative implemented by IMO to combat piracy, armed robbery against ships and other illicit maritime activities in the Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden.
The Chair of the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment (DCoC/JA), on behalf of the Signatory States, expresses grave concern and strongly condemns the continued detention of the Republic of Palau-flagged tanker MT HONOUR 25 (IMO 9109735), which has reportedly remained in captivity since 24 April 2026 under the control of pirates.
The Signatory States are deeply concerned at the deteriorating humanitarian situation on board the vessel and by the plight of the seventeen (17) crew members, who remain in captivity under extremely difficult and dangerous conditions and are reportedly in desperate need of assistance, with onboard provisions now critically low.
These developments, together with the resurgence of piracy and armed robbery against ships in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia, reinforce a stark reality: despite the progress achieved in recent years, maritime security gains remain fragile and continue to require sustained vigilance, operational coordination, and collective international engagement.
The Signatory States further express deep concern regarding the fate and wellbeing of the crew members onboard the other vessels currently being held by pirates and armed robbers in the region, namely the Saint Kitts and Nevis-flagged general cargo vessel SWARD (IMO 9174244), reportedly hijacked on 26 April 2026 with fifteen (15) crew members onboard, and the Togo-flagged oil tanker MV EUREKA (IMO 1022823), reportedly hijacked on 2 May 2026 with twelve (12) crew members onboard.
The continued captivity of these seafarers further underscores the persistent and evolving threat posed by piracy and armed robbery against ships in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, and reinforces the urgent need for strengthened regional and international cooperation to secure the safe release of all affected crew members and prevent further incidents.
The current incident serves as a stark reminder that Somali piracy remains suppressed, but not eradicated, and that sustained international and regional cooperation remains essential to safeguarding freedom of navigation, protecting seafarers, and ensuring maritime security and stability in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden.
The Chair supports the remarks delivered by the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) during the 111th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111), which highlighted the renewed threat of piracy and armed robbery against ships off the coast of Somalia and emphasized the urgent need for practical and coordinated action.
The Chair notes the interventions delivered by several Signatory States during MSC 111, including Kenya, the United Republic of Tanzania, South Africa, and others, which underscored the growing concern in the region regarding the resurgence of Somali piracy and the need for renewed international attention and operational responses.
In particular, the Signatory States take note of Kenya’s intervention highlighting the importance of the Djibouti Code of Conduct Working Group 3 (WG3), which Member States established to drive policy discussions aimed at enabling regional States to contribute more effectively to addressing maritime security threats through strengthened operational cooperation and coordination at sea.
The Signatory States also note the concerns raised by several other Member States, as well as by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), which called for stronger and more urgent measures to protect seafarers operating in high-risk maritime environments.
In this regard, the Signatory States call upon the Federal Government of Somalia to make every possible effort, in cooperation with relevant regional and international partners, to facilitate the safe and immediate release of the vessel and crew members and to ensure their safety, wellbeing, and humane treatment.
The Signatory States further call upon the international community, including naval forces operating in the region, international organizations, and maritime security partners, to intensify efforts aimed at securing the release of the crew members and preventing further acts of piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden.
The Signatory States also urge all Member States and relevant stakeholders to act decisively, as highlighted during MSC 111, by:
- Enhancing reporting and information-sharing through continued reporting of piracy and armed robbery incidents;
- Ensuring transparency regarding maritime security measures, including national requirements related to privately contracted armed security personnel;
- Strengthening regional and international cooperation, particularly through sustained support for the implementation of the DCoC/JA framework; and
- Fully implementing relevant IMO instruments, including SOLAS chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code; IMO guidance; and Best Management Practices (BMP), in order to better safeguard vessels and seafarers.
The Signatory States reaffirm their continued commitment under the DCoC/JA framework to strengthen regional cooperation, information sharing, operational coordination, and whole-of-government approaches to maritime security in order to address piracy and other illicit maritime activities.
The Signatory States also align themselves with the serious concerns highlighted by the Secretary-General of IMO regarding the deteriorating humanitarian situation faced by seafarers operating in high-risk areas. Seafarers operating in dangerous maritime environments continue to face prolonged confinement, sustained security threats, and severe psychological pressure.
Seafarers must never become collateral victims of geopolitical tensions, criminality, or delays in collective action. The principles are clear and unequivocal: freedom of navigation must be respected, and the safety, dignity, welfare, and humane treatment of seafarers must be guaranteed at all times.
As Chair of the DCoC/JA, South Africa wishes to emphasize that this situation is not solely a maritime security issue, but also a pressing humanitarian concern. Reports of crew members being held hostage under armed guard, exposed to violence, uncertainty, and prolonged confinement underscore the urgent need for strengthened coordination, timely interventions, and practical operational responses.
Practical solutions exist. What is required now is the collective will to implement them urgently, decisively, and without delay.
The unequivocal message from the Signatory States today is clear: the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of seafarers are non-negotiable, and we will continue to support all efforts aimed at protecting them and securing their safe release.
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