ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

ICC INTERNATIONAL MARITIME BUREAUPIRACY AND ARMED ROBBERYAGAINST SHIPSREPORT FOR THE PERIOD

1 January – 31 December 2021
WARNING
The information contained in this document is for the internal use of the recipient only.
Unauthorised distribution of this document, and/or publication (including publication on a
Web site) by any means whatsoever is an infringement of the Bureau’s copyright.

ICC International Maritime Bureau
Cinnabar Wharf
26 Wapping High Street
London E1W 1NG
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 207 423 6960
Email: imb@icc-ccs.org
Web: www.icc-ccs.org

January 2022

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

INTRODUCTION
The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) is a specialised division of the International
Chamber of Commerce (ICC). The IMB is a non-profit making organisation, established in 1981
to act as a focal point in the fight against all types of maritime crime and malpractice. The
International Maritime Organization (IMO) in its resolution A 504 (XII) (5) and (9) adopted on
20 November 1981, has inter alia, urged governments, interest groups and organizations to cooperate and exchange information with each other and the IMB, with a view of maintaining anddeveloping a coordinated action in combating maritime fraud.
Outrage in the shipping industry at the alarming growth in piracy prompted the creation of the
IMB Piracy Reporting Centre (IMB PRC) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in October 1992.
The key advantages and services of the PRC are:
 A 24/7 manned operations centre.
 A single point of reporting for all vessels affected by piracy or armed robbery, as they
trade through many different jurisdictions.
 Notifying the appropriate response agency of the reported incident and liaising withthese agencies until the crew and vessel are safe.
 Warning vessels in the vicinity of a threat by broadcasting sitreps of incidents via
Inmarsat-C SafetyNET service.
 Alerting CSOs and vessel managers of incidents via email.
 Keeping the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) updated of reported incidents.
 Assisting local law enforcement in apprehending and bringing the criminals to justice.
 Publish comprehensive quarterly and annual reports detailing incidents reported to the
PRC.
The IMB PRC provides all its services free of charge to all ships irrespective of crew nationality,
ownership, or flag.
This report is an analysis of 132 global maritime piracy and armed robbery incidents reported to
the IMB PRC from 1 January to 31 December 2021. Incidents are occasionally reported late,resulting in changes to the tables and figures in subsequent reports.
Due to the continued debate concerning the Malacca Straits, these narrated incidents are shown
separately. Similarly, because of the vast area affected by Somali pirates, these incidents aregrouped together with the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea in the narrations section.
For further details on the anti-piracy service or to report an incident contact the 24-hour manned
IMB PRC at:
ICC International Maritime Bureau
PO Box 12559, 50782 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel ++ 60 3 2078 5763 Fax ++ 60 3 2078 5769
E-mail: piracy@icc-ccs.org / imbkl@icc-ccs.org
WhatsApp / Telegram: +60 11 2659 3057
24 Hours Anti-Piracy HELPLINE Tel: ++ 60 3 2031 0014

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

DEFINITIONS OF PIRACY & ARMED ROBBERY
The IMB PRC follows the definitions of Piracy as defined in Article 101 of the 1982 United
Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and Armed Robbery as defined by theInternational Maritime Organisation (IMO) in its 26th Assembly session as Resolution A.1025(26) “Code of Practice for the Investigation of Crimes of Piracy and Armed Robbery against
Ships”.
Article 101 of UNCLOS defines Piracy as:
Definition of Piracy consists of any of the following acts:(a) any illegal acts of violence or detention, or any act of depredation, committed for privateends by the crew or the passengers of a private ship or a private aircraft, and directed(i) on the high seas, against another ship or aircraft, or against persons or property on board
such ship or aircraft;(ii) against a ship, aircraft, persons or property in a place outside the jurisdiction of any State;(b) any act of voluntary participation in the operation of a ship or of an aircraft with knowledgeof facts making it a pirate ship or aircraft;(c) any act of inciting or of intentionally facilitating an act described in subparagraph (a) or (b).

IMO Resolution A.1025 (26) “Code of Practice for the Investigation of Crimes of Piracy
and Armed Robbery against Ships” defines Armed Robbery as:
Armed robbery against ships means any of the following acts:.1 any illegal act of violence or detention or any act of depredation, or threat thereof, other thanan act of piracy, committed for private ends and directed against a ship or against persons orproperty on board such a ship, within a State’s internal waters, archipelagic waters andterritorial sea;
.2 any act of inciting or of intentionally facilitating an act described above

The definitions of piracy and armed robbery are aimed to assign responsibility for responding tothese illegal acts. It is worth noting that these definitions do not consider the resulting
consequence on the crew, vessel and cargo, which in IMB’s experience ranges from
opportunistic theft, cargo theft, taking crew hostage, assault and injury, kidnapping and in somecases death of a crew member.
It is vital that all actual and attempted incidents at the time of, or shortly after, the incident arereported and recorded.
This is the first essential step in the response chain.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Under the definitions of Piracy or Armed Robbery, the IMB PRC reports incidents as follows:
1. Boarded: An illegal act of perpetrators successfully gaining access onto the vessel.
2. Hijacked: An illegal act of perpetrators successfully gaining access onto the vessel andtaking over the control of the vessel from the Master and crew.
3. Fired Upon: An illegal act of perpetrators discharging weapons towards the vessel while
attempting to gain access onto the vessel.
4. Attempted: An illegal act of perpetrators attempting to approach a vessel with possible
intention to board but remain unsuccessful due to the timely actions of the crew.

The consequences to the crew, vessel, or cargo, as a result of the above illegal acts:
1. Crew: Kidnap, hostage, death, threat, assault, injury, missing.
2. Vessel: Damage, especially due to the discharge of weapons or when perpetrators
willfully damage vessel equipment and property.
3. Cargo: Theft or damage to cargo.

Region specific severity of incident on Crew, Vessel and Cargo: (Chart G)
As several agencies define and categorize incidents differently, the IMB reports under three
generic Severity Levels – I, II, and III determined by the effect the incident has on the crew,
vessel and cargo.
Severity Level I: Any incident which has a direct impact on the crew. To include:a.
Crew being taken hostage, assaulted, injured, killed, kidnapped, missing, threatened;b.
A hijacking where the command of the vessel is taken over by those boarding;c.
An incident where the crew retreats into the citadel.
Severity Level II: To include a vessel being fired upon, security teams firing on approaching
threat, robbers / pirates identified with weapons of any type (violence is offered) whether
boarded or otherwise.
Severity Level III: To include an incident that does not fall into either Level I or Level II

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

FUNDING
The Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC), funded purely on donations, wishes to thank the following
organisations that have financially contributed towards the Centre’s 24-hour manned service: ANIA Assuranceforeningen Skuld
 Britannia Steam Ship Insurance Association Limited
 Gard AS
 Japan P&I
 Justships Ltd
 Merchant Shipping Cyprus
 Steamship Insurance Management Services Limited
 The North of England P&I Association Ltd
 The Standard Club Ltd
 Tsakos Shipping and Trading SA

The PRC is additionally non-financially supported by: ExactEarth (www.exactearth.com)
 Vesseltracker (www.vesseltracker.com)

The financial and non-financial support provided to the IMB PRC by the above contributors aswell as other information providers has enabled the IMB PRC, to receive, respond to and action
over 3000 emails and calls on its Maritime Security Hotline from seafarers, CSOs, Maritime
Authorities, Government Agencies, Flag States, Law Enforcement, Navies, warships, Rescue
Centres and LES on piracy and armed robbery as well as other maritime crime and security.
The IMB PRC has also participated in 115 emergency vessel drills, on request of CSOs and has
provided information and advice to Masters and vessel operators on vessel voyage risk planning.
The IMB PRC has always provided all its services free of charge to all ships irrespective of crew
nationality, ownership, or flag.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

TABLE 1: Locations of ACTUAL and ATTEMPTED incidents, January – December
2017 – 2021
Location
20172018
Indonesia
43
36
Malacca Straits
Malaysia
7
11
Philippines
22
10
Singapore Straits
4
3
Thailand
EAST ASIA
China
2
3
Vietnam
2
4
INDIAN SUB
Bangladesh
11
12
CONTINENT
India
46
SOUTH AMERICA
Brazil4
Colombia
6
1
Dominican Republic
Ecuador2
4
Guyana
1
2
Haiti
1
3
MexicoPanamaPeru
2
4
Venezuela
12
11
AFRICA
Algeria
Angola1
Benin
5
Cameroon
7
Dem. Republic of Congo
1
Dem. Rep. of Sao Tome & Principe
1
Equatorial Guinea
Gabon
Ghana
1
10
Guinea2
3
Gulf of Aden*
3
1
Ivory Coast
1
1
Kenya
1
Liberia
MoroccoMozambique2
2
Nigeria
33
48
Red Sea*1
Senegal1
Sierra Leone
4
Somalia*
5
2
The Congo
1
6
Togo
1
REST OF
Iraq
WORLD
Oman
1
Yemen
3
Total at year end
180
201
All incidents with * above are attributed to Somali pirates
S E ASIA

6

2019
25

2020
26

11
5
12

4
8
23
1

3
2
4
2
3
1
3
2
1
1
10
6
1
3
6
1
1
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
2
3
35

2021
9
1
2
9
35

4
4
6
7
1

1

5

4

5
4

4
1

8

18

6
11

4
2
1
1
5
2
4
5
3
1

2
3
2
9
5

2
3
6

3
2

1

4
35

1
6

3
3

3
3
1

1

162

195

132

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

CHART A: The following eight locations contributed to 71% of the total of 132 incidents
reported in the period January – December 2021
COLOMBIA, 6
DEM. REP. OF SAO
TOME & PRINCIPE, 5

GHANA, 5

SINGAPORE STRAITS,35

INDONESIA, 9

NIGERIA, 6

PERU, 18
PHILIPPINES, 9

CHART B: Monthly comparison of incidents during January – December 2021
18
16
16
14

14

14
12

11

11

11

11
10

10

9

9

8

8

8
6
4
2
0
JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

7

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

CHART C: Total incidents as per regions of the world January – December 2021
60
56

50

40

37

36

30

20

10
2

1
0
EAST ASIA

INDIAN SUB-CONTAMERICAAFRICASE ASIA

CHART D: Perpetrators successful in 88% of incidents. January – December 2021

125
120
115
110
105
100
95
90
85
80
75
70
65
60
55
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0

115

11
5
1
BOARDEDHIJACKED

ATTEMPTEDACTUAL

FIREDUPONATTEMPTED8ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

CHART E: Type of incident in relation to the status of vessel movement
January – December 2021
ATTEMPTEDBOARDEDFIREDUPONHIJACKED

60
55
51
50

40

30

20

9

10

6

5

5
1

0
ANCHORED

BERTHEDSTEAMING

CHART F: Region specific type of incident in relation to the status of vessel movement
January – December 2021
ATTEMPTEDBOARDEDFIREDUPONHIJACKED

40
35
35
30
24

25
20
15

14

15

12

10
5

2

3 3
1

1

2

4

3
1

4
2

0

9

1

1

2

1

1

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

CHART G: Region specific severity of incident in relation January – December 2021
(Severity level I, II, III – see page 4 for clarification)

TABLE 2: ACTUAL and ATTEMPTED incidents by location, January – December 2021

Location
SE ASIA

Indonesia
Malacca Straits
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore Straits
EAST ASIA
Vietnam
INDIAN SUB-CONTIndia
AMERICAS
BrazilColombia
Ecuador
Haiti
MexicoPeru
AFRICA
AngolaBenin
Cameroon
Dem. Rep. of Congo
Dem. Rep. of Sao Tome & Principe
Equatorial Guinea
Gabon
Ghana
GuineaGulf of Aden
Liberia

Actual attacks
BoardedHijacked
8
1
2
9
33
1
2
3
6
1
4
17
4
2
1
1
4
1
2
3
3

Attempted attacks
Attempted Fired Upon
1

2

1
1
1

1
1
1

1
2
1

1
10

2

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Mozambique
Nigeria
The Congo

Sub total
Total

1
4
1
115

1

1

1

11

5

132

TABLE 3: Ports / anchorages, with three or more reported incidents,
January – December 2021
Country
AngolaColombia
GuineaIndonesia
Peru
Philippines

Location
LuandaCartagena
Conakry
JakartaCallaoManila01.01.2021 to 31.12.2021
3
3
3
4
18
8

TABLE 4: Status of vessels during ACTUAL incidents, January – December 2021
Location
SE ASIA

Indonesia
Malacca Straits
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore Straits
EAST ASIA
Vietnam
INDIAN SUB-CONTIndia
AMERICAS
BrazilColombia
Ecuador
Haiti
Peru
AFRICA
AngolaBenin
Cameroon
Dem. Rep. of Congo
Dem. Rep. of Sao Tome & Principe
Equatorial Guinea
Gabon
Ghana
GuineaLiberia
Mozambique
Nigeria
The Congo
Sub total
Total

Berthed2

Anchored
5

1
1

1
8

1
1
1

1
1
2
3

Steaming
1
1

33

1

2
17
4

2
1
1

2
1
1

2
1
3
1
1
1
9

11

4
1
1
2

3
1
55
116

52

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

TABLE 5: Status of vessels during ATTEMPTED incidents, January – December 2021
Location
SE ASIA

Indonesia
Singapore Straits
AMERICAS
EcuadorMexicoPeru
AFRICA Dem. Rep. of Sao Tome & Principe
Gabon
Ghana
Gulf of Aden
Equatorial Guinea
Nigeria
Sub total
Total

Anchored1

Steaming
2
3

1
1
1
1
2
1
1
2
11

5
16

TABLE 6: Types of arms used during incidents, January - December 2017 – 2021
Types of Arms
Guns
Knives
Not stated
Other weapons
Total

2017
52
44
80
4
180

2018
56
36
104
5
201

2019
47
36
74
5
162

2020
69
46
76
4
195

2021
34
38
56
4
132

TABLE 7: Comparison of the type of incidents, January - December 2017 – 2021
Category
Attempted
BoardedFired upon
Hijack
Total

2017
22
136
16
6
180

2018
34
143
18
6
201

2019
17
130
11
4
162

2020
20
161
11
3
195

2021
11
115
5
1
132

TABLE 8: Types of violence to crew, January – December 2017 – 2021
Types ofAssaulted
Hostage
Injured
Kidnap/Ransom
KilledThreatened
Total

2017
6
91
6
75
3
10
191

2018

2019
3
59
7
134
1
6
210

141
8
83
9
241

12

2020
5
34
9
135
8
191

2021
3
8
4
57
1
9
82

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

TABLE 9: Type of violence to crew by location, January – December 2021
Location
SE ASIA

Indonesia
Philippines
Singapore Straits
AMERICAS
Ecuador
Haiti
Peru
AFRICA
Benin
Dem. Rep. of Sao Tome & Principe
Equatorial Guinea
Gabon
Ghana
GuineaSub total
Total

Hostage

KidnapThreatAssault

Injured

2

1

1

4
2

1
1

Killed

1
2
1
3
20
15
6
11
5
2
8

1
1
2

57

9

3

4

1

82

TABLE 10: Types of arms used by geographical location, January – December 2021
LocationsS E ASIA

Indonesia
Malacca Straits
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore Straits
EAST ASIA
Vietnam
INDIAN SUB-CONTIndia
AMERICAS
BrazilColombia
Ecuador
Haiti
MexicoPeru
AFRICA
AngolaBenin
Cameroon
Dem. Rep. of Congo
Dem. Rep. of Sao Tome & Principe
Equatorial Guinea
Gabon
Ghana
GuineaGulf of Aden
Liberia
Mozambique
Nigeria
The Congo

Guns

2
2

Knives5
1

13

Other Weapons

1
1

2
1
2
4
1

1

12

1

Not Stated
4
2
6
19
1
2
1
5
1

5
4

2
1
1
5
2
3
2
3
1

1
3

1
1
1
1

5

13

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

34

Sub total
Total

38

4

56

132

TABLE 11: Incidents as per type of vessels, January – December 2017 – 2021
Type
Accommodation Barge
Bulk Carrier
Cement Carrier
Container
Dhow
Drilling Ship / Rig
General Cargo
Heavy Lift Vessel
Heavy Load Carrier
Landing Craft
Maintenance Pontoon
Offshore Support Vessel
Ore Carrier
Pipe Layer Ship / Barge
Passenger Craft
Pleasure Craft
Refrigerated Ship
Research Ship
RO-RO
Supply Ship
Tanker Asphalt / Bitumen
Tanker Bunkering
Tanker Chem / ProductTanker Crude Oil
Tanker FPSO / FSO
Tanker LNG
Tanker LPG
Trawler / Fishing
Offshore Tug / Tug & Barge
Vehicle Carrier
Yacht / Sailing Vessel
Total at year end

2017

2018

2019

24
1
14
2

51

9

1

2021

30

2020
1
34

13

12

20

30

1
6
1

7

1
6

1
4

2
1

1
1
1
1

47

1
2

2

2
1
1
2
2

6

3

1

6
1
1
33
11

2
2
1

2

8
1

6

41
12

32
15

32
7
1

22
5

2
7
1
4

1
1
5
10

180

201

2
4
3
5
1
1
162

14

3
6
5

2
2
3
3
2

195

132

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

CHART H: Incidents as per type of vessels, January – December 2021

BULK CARRIER

47

CONTAINER

30

PRODUCT TANKER

20

OFFSHORE SUPPLY SHIP

6

TANKER

5

GENERAL CARGO4FISHING VESSEL

3

TUG

3

VEHICLE CARRIER

2

LNG TANKER

2

CHEMICAL TANKER

2

OFFSHORE SUPPORT VESSEL2

LPG TANKER

2

PASSENGER CRAFT

1

REFRIGERATED CARGO

1LANDING CRAFT

1

DRILLING SHIP

1
0

.

5

10

15

.

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

TABLE 12: Nationalities of vessels affected, January - December 2017 – 2021
Flag State
Antigua & Barbuda
Austria
BahamasBarbados
BermudaBrazilCameroon
Cayman Island
Chile
China
Comoros
Cook Islands
CyprusDenmark
Equatorial Guinea
FranceGabon
Germany
Ghana
Gibraltar
GreeceHong Kong (SAR)
India
Indonesia
Isle of Man
Italy
Jamaica
Korea South
Liberia
Luxemburg
Malaysia
Malta
Marshall Islands
Mongolia
Netherlands
Nigeria
Niue
NorwayPalau
PanamaPhilippines
Portugal
RussiaSaudi Arabia
SenegalSierra Leone
SingaporeSpain
Sri Lanka
St Kitts & Nevis
St Vincent & Grenadines

2017
2

2018
2

5

7
2

1

2019
2
1
3
1
1
1
1

3
1

1
2
1
3

2020
1

2021
1

1

6
1
1
1

1

2

1

2

1
3

1

1

2
4

6
6
1
1

1
1
2

6
2
1
1

13
3
5
19
1
2

13
1
1
2
3

15
2
5
6
30
1
3
1

1
6
1
3

1
2
2
2
2
7
2
2
1
1

1
18

21

3
8
22

1
4
22

2
4
1

1

1
2
2
4
6

1
1
1
18
2
2
5
17
1
1

1

3

1

20
2

21
1

1

1
1

1

3
1

1

26

17

16

24
1

1
10
1

1
18
1
1

1
19
1
3

2
1
6
3

2
1

16

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Switzerland
ThailandTogo
TurkeyTuvaluUnited Kingdom
Vanuatu
Vietnam
Not StatedTotal at year end

1

1

1

1
1

1

3

1
1
1
3
1
180

1
201

162

195

132

CHART I: Nationalities of vessels involved in 12 times or more incidents,
January - December 2017 – 2021
30

24

25

20
18
17
15

10

5

0
MARSHALL ISLANDSLIBERIASINGAPORE

TABLE 13: Vessels affected – managed or controlled from January – December 2021
Country
BrazilCanadaChina
CyprusDenmark
Equatorial Guinea
FranceGermany
Ghana
GreeceHong Kong
India

No of Ships
1
1
3
2
10
1
3
17
2
27
6
8
17

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Indonesia
Japan
Korea South
Malaysia
Netherlands
Nigeria
NorwayPhilippines
PolandPortugal
Singapore
Switzerland
TurkeyUAE
United Kingdom
USA
Vietnam
Total

1
5
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
23
2
2
4
2
1
1
132

CHART J: Managing countries whose vessels involved in 12 times or more incidents
between January – December 2021
30
27

25
23

20
17

15

10

5

0
GERMANYSINGAPORE

18

GREECE

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

OFF SOMALIA / GULF OF ADEN / RED SEA ATTACK FIGURES UPDATE
From 1 January to 31 December 2021, one incident was reported to the IMB PRC for Gulfof Aden.
The international navies patrolling these waters continue to coordinate and liaise withmerchant and fishing fleets to identify and apprehend pirate action groups.
All vessels are advised and encouraged to adhere to the BMP 5 recommendations whiletransiting these waters. Vessels employing Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel(PCASP) should be cautious and not mistake fishermen for pirates in some heavy fishingareas.
As the IMB PRC continues to monitor the situation in the region, it cautions vessel owners
and masters against complacency. Somali pirates still retain the capability and capacity tocarry out attacks.
The IMB PRC supports and compliments the role of international navies by relaying allreports received to the response agencies, as well as by broadcasting alerts to vessels via
the INMARSAT Safety Net Service.

CONTINUED COOPERATION
The positive information sharing, actions and cooperation between the Indonesian Marine
Police (IMP) and the IMB PRC has resulted in an overall decrease in the number ofreported incidents in the 10 safe designated areas.
All vessels intending to anchor, waiting for berth or drift should do so at the designatedareas where IMP patrol boats would be stationed to enable them to maximize theirresources to provide greater protection for vessels.
Vessels are advised to cooperate by maintaining strict anti-piracy and robbery watches
and report all attacks and suspicious sightings to the local Authorities / IMP, as well as the
IMB PRC. The IMB PRC will also liaise with local and regional Authorities to rendernecessary assistance.
In line with the Road Map Program Police Reforms Wave III, the Indonesian Authorities
will continue to allocate and position resources and assets in 10 key designated areas ofconcern, to prevent sea robbery and piracy in and around Indonesian waters.
In January 2021, the IMB was informed that the successful cooperation resulting in a year
on year drop in incidents in almost all areas will continue until further notice.
The IMB thanks the IMP for their support and contribution to the shipping industry.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTThe IMB PRC appreciates the strong and vital cooperation from the Philippine andMalaysian Intel that have provided crucial information relating to safety of vessels andseafarers particularly in the Sulu Sea/eastern Sabah waters. The successful cooperation
has directly and indirectly saved many lives and properties at sea. The IMB PRC looks
forward to the continued cooperation, and thanks both intel agencies for theircommitment.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTThe IMB appreciates the assistance (past and present) and vital cooperation provided by
the Coalition naval forces / EU naval force (EUNAVFOR ATALANTA) / MSCHOA / USNavy / French Alindien / NATO / UKMTO / Indian Navy / Iranian Navy / Malaysian Navy
/ Russian Navy / Chinese Navy / South Korean Navy / Japanese Maritime SDF/ Singapore
Navy / Royal Thai Navy / and Yemeni Coast Guard and Navy, for assisting the many vesselsthat have been attacked by suspected Somali pirates, both in the Gulf of Aden, and offeastern / southern Somali coast, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and other areas. The positive
actions by the navies including pre-emptive and disruptive counter piracy tactics, resulted
in a drop in the number of attacks.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTThe IMB PRC appreciates the strong cooperation from the West African authorities /navies and international navies, especially the Danish, Italian, Russians, Spanish andPortuguese Navies in the Gulf of Guinea. A special thanks to the Nigerian Authorities,
particularly the Nigerian Navy and NIMASA, who have continued to provide prompt
information, actions and valuable cooperation between agencies. The IMB PRC looks
forward to the continued cooperation from the West African authorities / navies andinternational navies in the area.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTThe IMB PRC thanks all the masters and vessel owners / operators who have reported
incidents to the Centre in a timely manner. It encourages all incidents to be reported ina timely manner.
While the IMB PRC endeavours to always get a meaningful response from regional
authorities, the reports also play a crucial role to increase awareness of this crime, whichallows for additional resources to be allocated by authorities to tackle the crime of piracy
and armed robbery. Transparent statistics from an independent, non-political,
international organization such as the IMB PRC can act as a catalyst to achieve this goal.
The IMB PRC wishes all seafarers safe and secure voyages and remains available toassist in any manner.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

PIRACY AND ARMED ROBBERY PRONE AREAS AND WARNINGSAll ships are advised to report all piracy and armed robbery attacks and suspicious sightings tolocal Authorities, their flag state and to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre as per IMO Cir 1334.
The IMB Piracy Reporting Centre can be contacted at:
E-mail: piracy@icc-ccs.org / imbkl@icc-ccs.org
Tel: +60 3 2078 5763 Fax: +60 3 2078 5769
WhatsApp / Telegram: +60 11 2659 3057. (Photograph or video submission encouraged).
24 Hours Anti-Piracy HELPLINE is: +60 3 2031 0014
Mariners are advised to be cautious, take precautionary measures and follow all recommended
guidelines, when transiting the following areas:
SOUTH EAST ASIA AND INDIAN SUB CONTINENT
Bangladesh: Robbers normally target ships at anchor. Most incidents reported are at Chittagong
anchorages and approaches. Incidents in Bangladesh have fallen significantly over the past few
years because of the efforts by the Bangladesh Authorities.
Indonesia: Belawan and Tanjung Priok / Jakarta anchorage and surrounding waters. Pirates /robbers are normally armed with guns / knives and / or machetes. Generally, be vigilant in otherareas. Many incidents may have gone unreported. Pirates / robbers normally attack vessel during
the night. When spotted and alarm is sounded, the pirates / robbers usually escape without
confronting the crew. Therefore, a strict anti-piracy watch is recommended.
Meetings and continued dialogue between the Indonesian Marine Police (IMP) and the IMB
PRC resulted in very positive actions by the Indonesian Authorities, which have so far brought
down the number of incidents significantly. With the assistance and actions of the IMP, theincidents appear to be decreasing each year with great success. Incidents in Indonesian waters
has also dropped dramatically since the cooperation begin.
The Indonesian Marine Police have advised all ships intending to anchor, to do so at / near thefollowing areas where Indonesian Marine Police will conduct patrols for greater protection.
(After IMP-IMB started their cooperation, since 2014, no incident has been reported in the
Adang Bay region. With this in view, in March 2021, IMP has decided to replace Adang Bay
with Tanjung Butan at 01:11.30N – 104:12.30E as Singapore Straits and surrounding waters now
classified as risky waters).
1. Belawan: 03:55.00N-098:45.30E
2. Dumai: 01:42.00N-101:28.00E
3. Nipah: 01:07.30N-103:37.00E
4. Tanjung Berakit/Bintan: 01:23.30N-104:42.30E
5. Tanjung Priok: 06:00.30S-106:54.00E
6. Gresik: 07:09.00S-112:40.00E
7. Taboneo: 03:41.30S-114:28.00E
8. Tanjung Butan: 01:11.30N-104:12.30E (effective 12 March 2021)
9. Muara Berau: 00:17.00S-117:36.00E
10. Balikpapan: 01:22.00S-116:53.00E
The Indonesian Authorities have advised IMB that in accordance with the Road Map Program
Police Reforms Wave III, the above given ten locations prevention action of sea robbery / piracy
in Indonesian waters will continue until further notice.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Vessels are advised to maintain strict anti-piracy watch and measures and report all incidents
and suspicious sightings to the local authorities and the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre. The IMB
PRC will also liaise with the local authorities to render necessary assistance.
Malacca Straits: Although the number of incidents has dropped substantially due to theincreased and aggressive patrols by the littoral states’ authorities since July 2005, vessels areadvised to continue maintaining strict anti-piracy / robbery watches when transiting the Straits.
Currently, there are no indications as to how long these patrols will continue or when they will
be reduced. In some cases, incidents may have gone unreported. Situation currently remains
stable.
Malaysia: Bandar Penawar, Johor - vessels attacked at anchorage. Off Tanjung Piai – vessels
attacked while underway. Attacks have stopped and IMB PRC is monitoring and liaising with
Malaysian Authorities/MMEA.
In / off Eastern Sabah – Militant activities resulting in several tugs / barges / fishing vessels being
attacked and crews kidnapped. There were two kidnapping incidents in 2018 and two in 2019and one in January 2020 off Tambisan, Sabah. The local Authorities have beefed up patrols. It
was reported that several ASG militants have been captured/killed by the Authorities.
Militant/Kidnapping incidents on merchant ships have stopped due to patrols and actions by both
Malaysian and Philippines Authorities. The IMB PRC is monitoring the situation.
Vessels are advised to continue to take precautionary measures and maintain strict anti-piracy
watch and measures. Vessels transiting these waters should refer to the Sabah Notice to Mariners
NTM 14 of 2017 on the Ship Reporting System. Vessels are also urged to monitor the IMB PRC
Warnings on potential incidents targets / description of militant boats issued by the Philippines
and Malaysian Intel.
Philippines: Pirates / militants in the southern Philippines conduct attacks on vessels in / off
Sibutu passage / off Sibutu island / Tawi Tawi / Sulu sea / Celebes sea / off eastern Sabah. They
attacked tugs / barges / fishing vessels / yachts / merchant ships to rob and kidnap crews forransom. These kidnappings by militants have stopped (for merchant ships) since March 2017. In
2018 there were two incidents where crews were kidnapped off Sabah and two in 2019 and one
in 2020 where smaller tugs and fishing boats were targeted. These kidnappers are believed to beaffiliated with the ASG. The local Authorities have beefed up patrols. It was reported that several
ASG militants have been captured / killed by the Authorities. The IMB PRC is monitoring thesituation. Vessels are advised to take precautionary measures and maintain strict anti-piracy
watch and measures. Vessels transiting these waters should refer to the Sabah Notice to Mariners
NTM 14 of 2017 on the Ship Reporting System. Vessels are also urged to monitor the IMB PRC
Warnings on potential incidents locations / targets issued by the Philippines Intel / MalaysianIntel.
Manila: Be vigilant. Several past and recent incidents / robberies have been reported.
Singapore Straits: A General Warning issued in December 2019 indicating a sudden rise inattacks in Singapore Straits especially during the night is still valid to date as incidents are still
occurring and increasing. It appears one or more groups are targeting passing ships including
tugs/barges to rob them. Authorities have been notified and are aware of the situation. Vessels
are advised to remain vigilant and to continue maintaining adequate anti-piracy / robbery
watches and measures. Pirates / robbers attack ships while underway or while at anchor
especially during the night. Pirates / robbers will abort the attempted attack once spotted andalarm sounded, and Authorities notified. Therefore, a strict watch is necessary.
South China Sea: Although incidents have stopped in the vicinity off Tioman / off Pulau Aur /off Anambas / Natuna / Mangkai islands / Subi Besar / Merundung areas, vessels are advised tocontinue to remain vigilant, especially during the night. In the past, several hijackings of small
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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

product tankers occurred off the coast of Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and in the South China
Sea area. This trend started in April 2014, but the hijackings stopped abruptly in late 2015. It has
been reported that some criminals have been arrested by local Authorities both in Malaysia andin Indonesia. There were three incidents reported in 2017 where two tankers were hijacked off
Kuantan / Off Pulau Aur / East coast Malaysia. The IMB is monitoring the situation.
WEST AFRICA (Gulf of Guinea) – As a general rule:
(i)
(ii)

Follow recommendations and guidelines presented in the BMP WA.
All crews to keep a vigilant lookout using all available means. Ships to adjust ETA
for direct berthing or wait / drift / transit more than 250nm from coast, if appropriate
and agreed by all in venture.

Angola (Luanda): Incidents of robberies reported.
Benin (Cotonou): Incidents reported in / off Benin. Vessels attacked and crews kidnapped.
Incidents showed that the pirates / robbers in the area are well armed and violent. Currently
pirates robbed vessels and kidnapped crews for ransom. In the past, tankers were hijacked andpart cargo stolen (gas oil).
Cameroon (Douala): Incidents dropped. Past incidents involved kidnapping of crews.
Equatorial Guinea: Incidents dropped. Past incidents occurred around 40nm from Luba. One
incident involved hijacking and the other boarded with criminal intentions.
Gabon (Port Gentil / Owendo anchorage): Incidents / kidnapping of crews occurred more than
70nm offshore.
Ghana (Takoradi/Tema): Robberies have been reported at the anchorages.
Guinea (Conakry): Robberies have been reported at the anchorages.
Ivory Coast (Abidjan): Incidents dropped but remains risky.
Nigeria (Lagos/Apapa, Off Bayelsa / Brass / Bonny Island / Port Harcourt): Pirates / robbers areoften well armed, violent and have attacked and hijacked / robbed ships / kidnapped crews along/ far from the coast, rivers, anchorages, ports, and surrounding waters. Incidents have also beenreported up to about 212 nm from the coast. Generally, all waters in / off Nigeria remain highly
risky. Vessels are advised to be vigilant as many incidents may also have gone unreported.
Kidnapping for ransom remains the biggest risk for crews. Vessels are advised to take additional
measures in these high-risk waters. In the past, tankers were also hijacked and part cargo stolen(gas oil).
Togo (Lome): Incidents dropped. Past attacks reported at anchorage / in / off Togo. Vessels
robbed and crews kidnapped. In the past, tankers were also hijacked and part cargo stolen (gasoil).
The Congo: Pointe Noire / Off Point – stay vigilant.
Sao Tome & Principe: Vessels hijacked / attacked and crews kidnapped. Vessels advised tomaintain strict anti-piracy watch and measures. Waters are considered high risk for fishing andmerchant vessels.
Red Sea / Gulf of Aden / Somalia / Arabian Sea / Indian Ocean: No recent reported piracy
attacks. There were several suspicious reports. Although the opportunity for incidents has
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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

reduced, the Somali pirates continue to possess the capability and capacity to carry out incidents.
All merchant ships are advised to adhere to the recommendations in the latest BMP, whiletransiting in these waters. The IMB PRC will continue to alert and broadcast information to all
ships in the region via Inmarsat EGC Safety Net.
Although no reported incidents, the threat still exists in the waters off the southern Red Sea /Bab el Mandeb, Gulf of Aden including Yemen and the northern Somali coast, Arabian sea / offOman, Gulf of Oman and off the eastern and southern Somali coast. In the past, vessels havebeen attacked off Kenya, Tanzania, Seychelles, Madagascar, Mozambique, as well as in the
Indian ocean, and off the west and south coasts of India, and west Maldives. Be vigilant.
Generally, Somali pirates tend to be well armed with automatic weapons, RPGs and sometimes
use skiffs launched from mother vessels, which may be hijacked fishing vessels or dhows.
Masters and ship owners are encouraged to register and report their vessels as per the latest BMP
procedures and ensure that their vessel is hardened prior to entering the high-risk area. Whiletransiting through these waters it is essential to maintain a 24-hour visual and radar watch.
Keeping in mind the warnings and alerts for the area, an early sighting / detection of an
approaching skiff will enable an accurate assessment, allowing the Master and PCASP to makeinformed decisions to keep clear of small boats, dhows, fishing vessels and if necessary, takeevasive actions and request assistance as needed.
Masters are reminded that fishermen in this region may try to protect their nets by attempting toaggressively approach merchant vessels. Some of the fishermen may be armed to protect theircatch and they should not be confused with pirates.
Vessels transiting in / off Yemen / Gulf of Aden: Security risk due to civil war in Yemen.
Vessels have been fired upon and approached. (not piracy related).
Vessels transiting Straits of Hormuz / Gulf of Oman / Off Iran – a number of incidents
reported in 2021 involving explosions and unauthorised boarding. (not piracy related).

SOUTH AND CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN WATERS
Brazil (Macapa): Incidents dropped. Waters remain risky. Stay vigilant.
Columbia (Cartagena): Incidents reported at anchorages, river passage and pilot boarding
ground. Stay vigilant.
Ecuador (Guayaquil): Anchorage / river passage with pilot. Robbers well-armed. Fired upon.
Haiti (Port Au Prince): Armed robberies. Maintain watch and stay vigilant.
Mexico (Puerto Dos Bocas): Incidents dropped. Waters remain risky. Pirates / robbers in thisarea armed with guns.
Peru (Callao): Incidents increasing. Robbery incidents continuing. Maintain vigilant watch andanti-piracy measures.
Venezuela (Puerto La Cruz / Puerto Jose): Incidents dropped. Vessels are still reminded tomaintain strict anti-piracy watch and measures especially at anchor.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

IMB Maritime Security Hotline
The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has a dedicated hotline for seafarers, port workers,
shipping agents, shipyard personnel, brokers, stevedores, and all concerned parties to report any
information that they may have seen / heard / known etc. relating to any maritime crime including
terrorism, piracy and other illegal activities. All information reported will be treated in strict
confidence and will be passed on to relevant Authorities for further action. Maritime crime andsecurity concerns us all and with your help, we can try to minimize the risks and help save lives
and property.
The Maritime Security Hotline can be contacted 24 hours every day at:
Tel: +60 3 2031 0014 Fax: +60 3 2078 5769 E-mail: imbsecurity@icc-ccs.org
WhatsApp or Telegram at +601126593057. Photograph or video submission encouraged.
REMEMBER: Your information may save lives. All information will be treated in strict
confidence.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Trends within areas of continued concern
CHART K: SE Asia – Singapore Straits – Total number of reported incidents

CHART L: West Africa – Gulf of Guinea – Total number of reported incidents

CHART M: Americas – Peru

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

TRENDS
The IMB Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) received 132 incidents of piracy and armed robbery
against ships in 2021. This is the lowest recorded number since 1994 and compares with 195
reports in 2020.
The 2021 figures are broken down as 115 vessels boarded, 11 attempted attacks, five fired uponand one vessel hijacked. The overall reduction is attributed to a decrease of activity reported
within the Gulf of Guinea region – down from 81 in 2020 to 34 in 2021.Whilst increased
presence of international naval vessels and cooperation with regional authorities has had an
impact, the PRC warns that the threat to innocent seafarers still exists. This is evidenced inseveral failed and successful kidnapping attempts in the last quarter. The robust actions of theDanish navy in neutralising a suspected pirate action group in late November is also commended.
Compared to 2020, crew kidnappings dropped 55% globally in 2021. The Gulf of Guinea
continues to account for all crew kidnappings with 57 crew taken in seven separate incidents.
This includes six innocent crew kidnapped from a container vessel in mid-December around
46NM SW of Luba. While the regional decrease is welcomed the IMB PRC continues to urge
crews and vessels plying these waters to be cautious as the perpetrators remain violent and risk
to crews remains high. On 15 December 2021, a landing craft was fired upon while underway
approximately 21nm off the coast of Equatorial Guinea. The locally appointed armed team had
to engage in an exchange of fire with the pirates resulting in one guard being injured.
Guns or knives were reported used in over 50% of the globally reported incidents. In addition to
57 crew kidnapped, nine were threatened, eight taken hostage, four injured, three assaulted, andone killed. While the Gulf of Guinea is the known region of risk, crews are advised to be awareof incidents in other parts of world. Two container ships were approached and fired upon during
their river passages in Ecuador in the last quarter. In one incident the onboard armed teamreturned fire prior to the attack being aborted.
Thirty-five incidents against vessels underway within the Singapore Straits have been reported
to the IMB PRC in 2021, a 50% increase over 2020 and the highest number of reported incidents
since 1992. Vessels were boarded in 33 of the 35 incidents. Whilst viewed predominately as
low-level opportunistic thefts, two crew were threatened and one each assaulted and injured
during these incidents. Knives were also reported from 13 incidents and guns in a further two.
A noticeable decrease has been reported from the Indonesian Archipelagic with nine reports
received by the IMB PRC in 2021 compared to 26 in 2020 and the lowest since 1993. Of thereported incidents four were off Jakarta. Knives were reported in at least five of the incidents inwhich one crew was threatened. The continued efforts of the Indonesian Marine Police arecredited for maintaining reduced levels of incidents.
South American ports in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru and also in Mexico and Haiti
continue to be affected by the crime of armed robbery. Thirty-six incidents were reported in 2021
compared to 30 in 2020 with six crew threatened, four taken hostage and two assaulted. Thirtyone vessels were boarded, the majority at anchor, three reported attempted boardings and two
vessels fired upon. Incidents in the Peruvian anchorage of Callao have more than doubled
compared to 2020, with a total of 18 incidents reported in 2021 compared to eight in 2020. In
December at Port au Prince, Haiti, four robbers disguised as fishermen and armed with guns andknives boarded a bulk carrier and threatened the duty crew. The locally appointed armed guards
exchanged fire resulting in two perpetrators being killed.
While the direct threat of attacks from Somali based pirates appears to have decreased – alongwith a further revision and reduction of the High Risk Area in September – the IMB PRC
continues to encourage Masters to be vigilant, especially if transiting close to the Somali coast.
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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Since 1991 the IMB PRC’s 24-hour manned centre, has provided the maritime industry,
governments and response agencies with timely and transparent data on piracy and armed
robbery incidents – received directly from the Master of the vessel or its owners.
The IMB PRC’s prompt forwarding of reports and liaison with response agencies, its broadcasts
to shipping via Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Safety Net Services andemail alerts to Company Security Officers, all provided free of cost, has helped the response
against piracy and armed robbery and the security of seafarers, globally.
IMB continues to encourage all shipmasters and owners to report all actual, attempted andsuspected global piracy and armed robbery incidents to the IMB PRC. This first step in the
response chain is vital to ensuring that adequate resources are allocated by authorities to tackle
piracy. Transparent statistics from an independent, non-political, international organization can
act as a catalyst to achieve this goal.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

OBSERVATIONS
Narrations of the 132 attacks for 01 January to 31 December 2021 are listed on pages 32 to 51.
The following serious incidents, in chronological sequence are described in more detail.
Benin:
On 11 March 2021, a Malta flagged Chemical Tanker was attacked by armed pirates while
underway at position Latitude 02:48 North and Longitude 002:36 East, around 212nm south of
Cotonou, Benin at approximately 1512 UTC. Around nine pirates armed with AK47 assault
weapons in a speed boat attacked and successfully boarded the tanker. Alarm raised and distressmessages activated. A Nigerian Security Vessel was dispatched to assist the tanker. By the time
the Security Vessel arrived at the location, the pirates had kidnapped 15 crew and escaped. The
remaining six crew sailed the tanker under escort to a safe port.
On 31 May 2021, a Ghana flagged Fishing Vessel Iris S was attacked and boarded by pirates at
position Latitude 04:33 North and Longitude 002:23 East, Around 104nm South of Cotonou,
Benin at approximately 1930 UTC. The armed pirates approached and boarded the fishing vessel
from two skiffs. They ransacked the vessel, kidnapped five crew and escaped. The remainingcrew reported the incident to the Authorities and a Ghanaian patrol boat escorted the vessel to asafe port. Crew reported that a mother vessel was sighted in the vicinity.
Equatorial Guinea:
On 13 December 2021, a Liberian flagged Container Ship was attacked by armed pirates while
underway at position Latitude 03:11.42 North and Longitude 007:49.02 East, around 46nm SW
of Luba, Equatorial Guinea at approximately 1427 UTC. Danish Navy warship was notified andproceeded to render assistance. The pirates escaped with six kidnapped crew. It is reported that
one crew was injured during the incident and was evacuated for medical treatment.
On 15 December 2021, an Equatorial Guinea flagged Landing Craft Tropical was attacked andfired upon by armed pirates while underway at position Latitude 02:19.7 North and Longitude009:25.7 East, around 21nm West of Punta Campo, Equatorial Guinea at approximately 1830
UTC. There was an exchange of fire between the pirates and the locally appointed armed guards
onboard the vessel resulting in one armed guard being injured. Vessel also sustained damages
due to gunshots. Incident reported to local port authorities.
Gabon:
On 08 February 2021, a Chinese flagged Fishing Vessel FV Lian Peng Yu 809 was hijacked by
pirates while underway at position Latitude 00:51.43 South and Longitude 007:20.20 East,around 83nm WSW of Port Gentil, Gabon at approximately 0620 UTC. The fishing vessel with
14 crew was attacked and boarded by pirates. The incident was reported to the IMB PRC by the
Chinese Authorities. The IMB PRC liaised with Regional Authorities and international warshipin the region. The hijacked fishing vessel was later intercepted by Gabon Authorities on 12
February 2021. Ten crew members were reported kidnapped. The remaining crew sailed thevessel to Gabon waters. On 06 March 2021, the 10 kidnapped crew were released safely.
On 05 September 2021, a St Kitts and Nevis flagged Offshore Supply Vessel Tampen was
attacked by armed robbers while anchored at position Latitude 00:22.38 North and Longitude009:24.27 East, at Owendo Inner Anchorage, Gabon at approximately 0007 UTC. Five robbers
in a speed boat armed with guns approached, fired upon, and boarded the anchored offshore
supply vessel. Alarm raised and crew secured themselves in the vessel. Two crew members were
injured due to the firing and were air lifted to hospital for treatment. One crew was kidnapped.
Remaining crew onboard reported safe. Local authorities were notified and provided assistance.
On 29.10.2021, the Owners confirmed that the kidnapped crew was safely released on 28 Oct
2021.

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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

Ghana:
On 30 January 2021, a Marshall Islands flagged Bulk Carrier MV Rowayton Eagle was attacked
by armed pirates while underway at position Latitude 02:55.0 North and Longitude 001:56.6
East, around 200nm SE of Accra, Ghana at approximately 0424 UTC. Armed pirates onboard askiff with ladder attacked the ship underway. The crew noticed the pirates boarding and retreatedinto the citadel. Upon hearing of the incident, the IMB PRC immediately alerted and liaised with
the Regional Authorities and the vessel operators. A Ghanaian Navy patrol boat was dispatched
but was unable to assist due to technical difficulties. Owners advised the Master to sail towards
the Nigerian EEZ waters to rendezvous with a Nigerian security team, which allowed the crew
to emerge from the citadel and sail under escort to a safe port. All 19-crew reported safe.
On 19 May 2021, a Ghana flagged Fishing Vessel Atlantic Princess was attacked and boarded
by pirates at position Latitude 04:33.5 North and Longitude 000:15.6 East, Around 66nm Southof Tema, Ghana at approximately 1830 UTC. The pirates approached, fired upon and boarded
the fishing vessel from a small craft. They stole crew personal belongings, kidnapped five crew
and escaped. The Ghanaian Navy was notified and a patrol boat was dispatched to escort thefishing vessel and remaining crew back to Tema. On 28 June 2021 the five kidnapped crew werereleased safely.
Haiti:
On 11 December 2021, a Marshall Islands flagged Bulk Carrier MV Lesedi Queen was attacked
by armed robbers while berthed at position Latitude 18:34.4 North and Longitude 072:20.9 West,at Port-Au-Prince Port, Haiti at approximately 0108 UTC. Four robbers, disguised as fishermen
and armed with guns and knives boarded the berthed ship. Duty crew on routine rounds wereconfronted and threatened by the robbers who pointed the guns at the crew while they lowered
ship’s stores into a waiting boat. The crew took cover and called for help. The locally appointed
armed guards onboard the ship exchanged fire with the robbers resulting in two robbers being
killed. The others escaped. Haiti Port Security notified.
Nigeria:
On 14 March 2021, a Luxembourg flagged Offshore Support Vessel was attacked by armed
pirates while underway at position Latitude 02:58 North and Longitude 002:53 East, around
208nm south of Lagos, Nigeria at approximately 0731 UTC. Around seven to 10 armed pirates
in a small boat attacked and successfully boarded the vessel underway. Alarm raised, Authorities
notified and all crew members retreated into the citadel. A Nigerian Security Vessel responded
to provide assistance. The pirates fired at the vessel’s bridge before escaping and before thearrival of the Security Vessel. Some equipment was destroyed. All 20 crew members reported
safe. The Offshore Support Vessel proceeded to a safe port under the escort of the Security
Vessel.
On 25 October 2021, a Panamanian flagged Container Ship MV MSC Lucia was attacked andboarded by armed pirates while underway at position Latitude 02:13 North and Longitude 004:50
East, around 149nm SW of Brass, Nigeria at approximately 0855 UTC. The crew retreated into
the citadel. On being notified of the incident, the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre immediately
alerted and liaised with the Regional Authorities and international warships to request forassistance. A Russian Navy warship and its helicopter responded and proceeded to renderassistance resulting in the crew and ship being safe. The pirates escaped with stolen ship’s
properties.
Sao Tome and Principe:
On 23 January 2021, a Liberian flagged Container ship MV Mozart was attacked by armed
pirates while underway at position Latitude 01:04.13 North and Longitude 005:05.22 East,around 98nm NW of Sao Tome Island, Sao Tome and Principe at approximately 0535 UTC. An
unknown number of armed pirates attacked and successfully boarded the vessel. One crew wasreported killed and 15 were kidnapped. Remaining three crew managed to navigate the ship to asafe port. On 12 February 2021, the 15 kidnapped crew were released safely.
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ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

On 06 February 2021, a Marshall Islands flagged Product Tanker MT Sea Phantom was attacked
by armed pirates while underway at position Latitude 02:00.02 North and Longitude 008:15.02
East, around 50nm NE of Principe Island, Sao Tome and Principe at approximately 2254 UTC.
Eight armed pirates with AK47 assault weapons in a skiff attacked and successfully boarded thetanker with a long aluminium ladder. Alert crew noticed the pirates and retreated into the citadel.
The pirates damaged the onboard communication and navigation equipment. Upon hearing of
the incident, the IMB PRC immediately alerted and liaised with Regional Authorities includinga Portuguese Navy warship. The crew managed to navigate the tanker to try and rendezvous withdispatched Cameroonian and Equatorial Guinean patrol boats. The tanker was later interceptedby the patrol boats and escorted to a safe port. All 18 crew and one superintendent reported safe.
On 09 February 2021, a Panamanian flagged Product Tanker MT Maria E was attacked by armed
pirates while underway at position Latitude 01:35 North and Longitude 005:07 East, around
112nm NW of Sao Tome Island, Sao Tome and Principe at approximately 1222 UTC. Aroundnine pirates armed with AK47 assault weapons and a ladder on a skiff attacked and successfully
boarded the tanker. Crew onboard the tanker noticed the pirates boarding and retreated into thecitadel. The IMB PRC immediately alerted and liaised with the operators, Regional Authorities
and an international warship in the vicinity which escorted the tanker until an Equatorial Guinea
patrol boat took over until the tanker was safely anchored. All 21-crew reported safe.
On 23 April 2021, a Cyprus flagged Container ship MV Contship New was attacked by armed
pirates while underway at position Latitude 01:27 North and Longitude 004:38 East, around
132nm NW of Neves, Sao Tome and Principe at approximately 0903 UTC. Crew onboard theship noticed pirates in a skiff approaching. Alarm raised and all crew mustered in the citadel.
Owners and Authorities notified. An Italian Navy frigate proceeded to provide assistance. The
six pirates that boarded the ship left after a few hours as they were unable to gain access to any
crew. Pirates were armed with AK-47. Weapons were used and the windows were damaged. The
Italian Navy frigate arrived and thereafter provided escort to the ship. All 16 crews reported safe.

31

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

1 January – 31 December 2021
ACTUAL ATTACKSSOUTH EAST ASIA (MALACCA STRAITS)
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

12.09.2021
2015 UTC
Steaming
BoardedAthenia
Product Tanker
Singapore
5256
9498951

01:15.42N –103:23.94E,
Malacca Straits

Four robbers armed with knives boarded
the tanker underway. Duty oiler noticed
the robbers trying to enter the engine
room and raised the alarm. All deck
lights switched on, PA announcement
made, and crew mustered. Seeing thecrew alertness, the robbers escaped intheir boat with two accomplices. VTIS
informed. A search was madethroughout the tanker. Nothing reported
stolen.

SOUTH EAST ASIA (EXCLUDING MALACCA STRAITS)
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

03.01.2021
1940 UTC
Anchored
Boarded2.

24.01.2021
1925 UTC
Steaming
Boarded00:15.8S –117:34.3E,
Muara Berau
Anchorage,
Indonesia
01:16.49N –104:15.60E,
Singapore
Straits

3.

28.01.2021
1420 UTC
Steaming
BoardedThree robbers armed with knives
boarded an anchored ship. Duty crewspotted the robbers near the forecastle
store escaping with ship’s stores.
Incident reported to local authorities.
Five robbers armed with knives boarded
the ship underway. Crew mustered anda search was carried out. Nothing
reported stolen. Incident reported to
CSO and VTS.
Ten robbers armed with knives boarded
the ship underway. General alarmsounded. All crew mustered. Incident
reported to VTS.

4.

28.01.2021
1820 UTC
Steaming
BoardedName Withheld
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
36421
Ark Royal
Bulk Carrier
Barbados
27011
9219446
Elvia
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
50697
9570840
Vantage Wave
General Cargo
Liberia
22064
95065145.

29.01.2021
1910 UTC
BerthedBoardedKota NebulaContainer
Singapore
20902
9494632

06:05.57N –125:09.42E,
Makar Wharf,
General Santos
City Port,
Philippines

01:16.15N –104:16.72E,
Singapore
Straits
01:16.87N –104:18.71E,
Singapore
Straits

32

Three robbers armed with long knives
boarded the ship underway. Duty crewspotted the robbers in the engine roomand raised the alarm. Crew mustered.
Hearing the alarm, the robbers escaped
empty handed. Incident reported to
VTIS.
Duty crew onboard the berthed ship
noticed two robbers near the lifeboat
deck and raised the alarm. Crew
mustered. Hearing the alarm and seeing
the alerted crew, the robbers jumped
overboard and escaped in a waiting
canoe. A search was carried out. It wasreported that ship’s properties werestolen. Incident reported to the Local
Agent, Port Authority and Coast Guard.
The
Philippines
Coast
Guard

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

6.

30.01.2021
1930 UTC
Anchored
BoardedSurya Aki
LNG Tanker
Bahamas20519
9060534

03:56.3N –098:45.6E,
BelawanAnchorage,
Indonesia

7.

12.02.2021
2230 UTC
BerthedBoardedALS Juventus
Container
Singapore
40541
9431757

8.

21.02.2021
0430 UTC
Steaming
BoardedDanum 50
Tug
Malaysia
165
9404261

06:05.84S –106:53.65E,
Tanjung Priok
Container Berth,Jakarta,Indonesia
01:06.38N –103:44.68E,
Singapore
Straits

9.

24.03.2021
1925 UTC
Steaming
Boarded10.

29.03.2021
1850 UTC
Anchored
Boarded11.

30.03.2021
0230 UTC
Steaming
Boarded12.

07.04.2021
1747 UTC
Steaming

Linau 133
Barge
Malaysia
2010
African Queen
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
30936
9389930
Baltic North
Container
Marshall Islands
44234
9463310POSH Falcon
Tug
Singapore
3513
9624586
Scarabeo 7
Rig
Bahamas23595
8758861
Trina Oldendorff
Bulk Carrier
Portugal

01:17.0N –104:18.1E,
Singapore
Straits
06:00.4S –106:53.7E,
JakartaAnchorage,
Indonesia

01:12.47N –103:32.71E,
Singapore
Straits

01:16.5N –104:16.1E,

33

apprehended one robber responsible forthe theft and managed to recover thestolen items.
Two robbers armed with knives
threatened a duty AB on routine rounds
onboard an anchored tanker. The AB
retreated into the accommodation andinformed the duty officer. Alarm raised,crew mustered, and local authorities
notified. Seeing the alerted crew, therobbers escaped with the stolen ship’s
properties. Port Control and Coast
Guard responded and boarded the tanker
to investigate.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded the berthedship, broke into the engine room, stoleengine spares and escaped. The robbery
was noticed by duty crew on routine
security rounds.
An Indonesian navy patrol boat noticed
a suspicious boat alongside the barge
under tow and called the tug Master toreduce speed. Naval team boarded thebarge and arrested five unauthorised
persons. Tug and barge continued theirvoyage after investigations werecompleted. Nothing reported stolen.

Five robbers armed with knives boarded
the ship underway. Master raised thealarm, crew mustered, and a search was
carried out. Nothing reported stolen.
Incident reported to VTIS.
Duty AB on routine rounds onboard an
anchored ship noticed two robbers on
the poop deck with two sacks. The AB
shouted and flashed his torchlight at therobbers. Alarm raised and crew
mustered. Hearing the alarm, therobbers fled immediately. A search was
carried out. Ship’s engine spares werereported stolen. Incident reported to the
local authorities, and the coast guard
boarded the ship for investigation.
Robbers in two small boats approached
the stern of the unmanned rig under tow.
They detached and stole the emergency
towline pickup buoy floating behind the
rig and escaped. Incident reported to
VTIS. Vessel and crew safe.

While underway, four robbers armed
with knives entered the engine room.
The robbers pushed and hit the duty

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
Boarded41091
9642370

Singapore
Straits

13.

07.04.2021
2150 UTC
Steaming
Boarded01:16.13N –104:15.56E,
Singapore
Straits

14.

10.04.2021
1715 UTC
Steaming
BoardedHarrisburg
Product Tanker
Singapore
30087
9859210
Pantazis L
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
39746
927295515.

11.04.2021
1948 UTC
BerthedBoardedHenry Maersk
Product Tanker
Denmark
25723
9399351

05:47.2N –118:01.6E,
MOT Terminal,
Sandakan,
Sabah,
Malaysia

16.

16.04.2021
1740 UTC
Steaming
BoardedName Withheld
Product Tanker
Singapore
29447-

01:16.03N –104:12.08E,
Singapore
Straits

17.

16.04.2021
2100 UTC
Steaming
BoardedIoanna L
Bulk Carrier
Isle of Man
43066
9803340

01:16.4N –104:14.3E,
Singapore
Straits

18.

19.04.2021
1855 UTC
Anchored
BoardedBAK DA 5
Tug
Mongolia
199
9851567

14:33.60N –120:56.02E,
Manila Bay
Anchorage,
Philippines

19.

23.05.2021
1430 UTC
Steaming
BoardedBAK DA 55
Barge
Malaysia
3408
Alea
Bulk Carrier
Bahamas17009
9550266

01:15.50N –104:12.04E,
Singapore
Straits

01:16.7N –104:16.6E,
Singapore
Straits

34

motorman on the head before escaping.
Alarm raised, crew mustered, and asearch was carried out. Nothing reported
stolen.
Two robbers boarded the tanker
underway. Master raised the alarm
resulting in the robbers escaping empty
handed.
Four robbers armed with knives boarded
the ship underway. They broke into theengine room, stole engine spares, andescaped. The robbers were noticed by
the duty crew who immediately
informed the bridge and raised thealarm. Incident reported to VTIS and apatrol boat escorted the ship until she
was clear of the area. All crew reported
safe.
Duty crew onboard the berthed tanker
noticed a robber on the forecastle andnotified the OOW. Alarm raised andcrew mustered. Seeing the alerted crew,
the robber jumped overboard andescaped in a small skiff. Incident
reported to local port authorities.
Duty Engineer on routine rounds
noticed someone trying to open thesteering gear entrance door from thepoop deck and immediately informed
the bridge. Alarm raised and all deck
and accommodation lights switched on.
Hearing the alarm, the perpetrators
escaped. Crew mustered and a search
was carried out. Nothing reported
stolen. VTIS informed.
Four robbers boarded the ship
underway. They assaulted and injured
the fourth engineer, stole engine sparesand escaped. Alarm raised, PA
announcement made, and crew
mustered. On searching the ship norobbers were found. Incident reported to
VTS.
Duty security watchman onboard an
anchored barge noticed six unauthorised
persons moving cargo from the barge totheir small boat. Alarm raised and the
security guard managed to apprehend
one robber while the remaining five
jumped overboard, leaving their boatand stolen cargo behind. Incident
reported to the Philippines Coast Guard
who arrived to investigate.
Four robbers armed with knives boarded
the ship underway and threatened the
duty crew who retreated into theaccommodation. Alarm raised and crew
mustered resulting in the robbers
escaping without stealing anything.

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
20.

23.05.2021
1647 UTC
Steaming
BoardedRB Eden
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
43278
9765718

01:16.37N –104:16.49E,
Singapore
Straits

21.

04.06.2021
1730 UTC
Steaming
BoardedCape Lily
Bulk Carrier
Singapore
92752
9612430

01:15.8N –104:13.7E,
Singapore
Straits

22.

09.06.2021
1530 UTC
Anchored
Boarded23.

15.06.2021
1650 UTC
Anchored
BoardedTR Aramis
Container
Marshall Islands
31370
9784661
Sima Sahba
Container
Singapore
15995
9330927

14:33.4N –120:55.2E,
ManilaAnchorage,
Philippines
14:33.8N –120:55.4E,
ManilaAnchorage,
Philippines

24.

21.06.2021
1940 UTC
Anchored
BoardedMount Butler
Container
Hong Kong
18826
9760586

14:33.9N –120:55.2E,
ManilaAnchorage,
Philippines

25.

24.06.2021
2136 UTC
Anchored
BoardedBaltic North
Container
Marshall Islands
44234
946331005:59.50S –106:54.20E,
JakartaAnchorage,
Indonesia

26.

27.06.2021
1915 UTC
Anchored
BoardedNordtiger
Container
Cyprus
18826
9626247

14:33.7N –120:55.4E,
Manila South
Quarantine
Anchorage,
Philippines

27.

29.06.2021
1620 UTC
Steaming
BoardedJ MareBulk Carrier
Liberia
43241
9802231

01:16.10N –104:14.10E,
Singapore
Straits

35

Duty engine crew onboard the ship
underway noticed unauthorized persons
in the engine room. Alarm raised andcrew mustered. Suspecting the persons
to be still onboard, the ship anchored at
the OPL. At daybreak, a full search was
carried out. The ship continued hervoyage once it was determined that no
unauthorized persons were onboard.
Duty engine crew onboard the ship
underway noticed three robbers in theengine room and immediately notified
the bridge. Alarm raised and a search
was carried out. Seeing the alerted crew,
the robbers escaped with the stolen
engine spares. Incident reported to
VTIS.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship and escaped with ship’s stores. The
theft was noticed by the duty crew
during routine rounds. Coast guard
informed.
Duty watchman on routine rounds
onboard an anchored ship noticed
around four persons in a small boat
under the forecastle. He immediately
informed the duty officer who sent thesecond security watchman to assist.
Seeing the watchmen, the persons
moved away. A search was carried out.
The paint store was found broken intoand ship’s stores stolen. VTMS Manila
informed.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship and escaped with ship’s stores. The
theft was discovered by the duty crew
during routine rounds. Incident reported
to the Port Authorities via the local
agent.
Two persons boarded the ship during
anchoring operations. Duty AB noticed
the unauthorised persons and raised thealarm. Seeing the alerted crew, the two
persons escaped in a waiting boat withanother four persons onboard. Incident
reported to the coast guard who boarded
for investigation. Nothing reported
stolen.
Duty officer onboard an anchored ship
noticed a suspicious craft in the vicinity
and notified the duty crew to investigate.
Forecastle door padlock found broken
and ship’s properties reported stolen.
Incident reported to VTS, Coast Guardand local agent.
Duty engine crew onboard the ship
underway noticed four robbers in theengine room and notified the bridge.
Alarm raised and crew mustered. Seeing
the alerted crew, the robbers escaped

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

28.

10.07.2021
1520 UTC
Anchored
BoardedAS Romina
Container
Portugal
17068
9449821

14:33.2N –120:55.3E,
ManilaAnchorage,
Philippines

29.

16.07.2021
1615 UTC
Steaming
BoardedStar Nike
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
35835
9875094

01:16.02N –104:12.39E,
Singapore
Straits

30.

16.07.2021
1640 UTC
Steaming
BoardedAdventurer
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
35210
9805752

01:16.6N –104:14.6E,
Singapore
Straits

31.

16.07.2021
1725 UTC
Anchored
BoardedMaersk Nussfjord
Container
Panama25805
9894662

14:33.59N –120:56.20E,
ManilaAnchorage,
Philippines

32.

12.08.2021
1730 UTC
Anchored
BoardedCMA CGM
CaimepContainer
Malta
40541
9431757

14:32.6N –120:54.8E,
ManilaQuarantine
Anchorage,
Philippines

33.

20.08.2021
1400 UTC
Steaming
BoardedNefeli
Bulk Carrier
Bahamas40040
9291432

01:15.0N –104:06.5E,
Singapore
Straits

34.

20.08.2021
1900 UTC
Steaming
BoardedGood Luck I
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
28665
9249269

01:18.0N –106:14.8E,
Around 17nm
SSW of Pulau
Pengibu,Indonesia

36

with stolen engine spares. Incident
reported to VTS.
Duty crew onboard an anchored ship
noticed two unauthorised persons on theforecastle. Alarm raised and crew
mustered. Seeing the alerted crew, thepersons escaped with stolen ship’s
properties. Incident reported to Manila
VTMS and the Philippines Coast Guard
boarded the ship for investigations.
The duty officer onboard the ship
underway noticed a suspicious boat
alongside the ship and notified theMaster who instructed the crew to checkand secure the accommodation. Engine
room crew reported five robbers armed
with a knife outside of the steeringroom. Alarm was raised, resulting in therobbers escaping without stealing
anything. Incident reported to VTS.
An unknown number of robbers armed
with knives approached and boarded theship underway. They tried to break thepadlock of a door leading to the engine
room. Alert duty crew raised the alarmand crew mustered. Seeing the alerted
crew, the robbers escaped without
stealing anything. The ship and crew
reported safe.
Eight robbers armed with a gun and ironbars boarded an anchored ship. They
took hostage the duty crew on routine
rounds, tied him up, stole ship’s storesand properties, and escaped in a smallboat. The duty crew managed to untie
himself and raised the alarm. Crew
mustered and a search was carried out.
Incident reported to Manila VTMS. The
coast guard officers boarded the ship forinvestigations.
Five robbers armed with knives andguns boarded an anchored ship. They
took the duty AB hostage, tied hishands, threatened him, stole ship’s
stores and escaped. Incident reported to
the local authorities who boarded forinvestigations.
Four robbers armed with knives boarded
the ship underway. Alert duty crew
raised the alarm and crew mustered.
Seeing the alerted crew, the robbers
escaped with stolen ship’s spares.
Incident reported to Singapore VTIS.
While enroute to Singapore, fourrobbers armed with knives boarded theship underway, entered the engine roomand threatened the duty engineer, whoescaped and notified the bridge. Alarm
raised and Master instructed all crew tostay in cabins. Incident reported toSingapore VTIS. Singapore Police

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

35.

27.08.2021
2200 UTC
BerthedBoardedSolar Catie
Product Tanker
Liberia
18335
9887401

03:47.2N –098:42.0E,
Belawan Port,
Indonesia

36.

17.09.2021
1450 UTC
Steaming
BoardedDelphinus
Bulk Carrier
Singapore
40717
9336000

01:16.4N –104:15.8E,
Singapore
Straits

37.

17.09.2021
1940 UTC
Steaming
BoardedAsia Graeca
Bulk Carrier
Cyprus
39041
9279381

01:17.3N –104:19.9E,
Singapore
Straits

38.

05.10.2021
1830 UTC
Steaming
BoardedAmeliaProduct Tanker
Malaysia
28799
9308778

01:15.00N –104:06.81E,
Singapore
Straits

39.

05.10.2021
2020 UTC
Anchored
BoardedOriental Rose
Product Tanker
Cayman Islands
8259
9330393

05:48.11N –118:05.76E,
Sandakan Inner
Anchorage,
Sabah,
Malaysia

40.

06.10.2021
1600 – 2200
UTC
Steaming
Boarded10.10.2021
1530 UTC
Steaming
Boarded

True Champion
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
93196
9403528
Rosco Olive
Bulk Carrier
Hong Kong
40325
9542465

Singapore
Straits

14.10.2021
1552 UTC
Steaming

Everrich 7
ChemicalTanker

01:15.10N –104:03.65E,

41.

42.

01:15.8N –104:11.3E,
Singapore
Straits

37

Coast Guard boarded the ship when she
entered Singapore waters. All crew safe.
Engine spares reported stolen.
Two robbers armed with knives boarded
the berthed tanker, stole ship’s
properties, and escaped. The theft was
discovered by the duty crew during
routine rounds after departure. Incident
reported to CSO.
Three persons boarded the ship
underway. Alarm raised and crew
mustered resulting in the persons
escaping without stealing anything. All
crew reported safe. Incident reported toSingapore VTIS.
A ship underway was boarded by fiverobbers armed with a gun and knife.
They entered the engine room andthreatened the Duty Oiler. Incident wasnoticed by the second engineer, who
immediately informed the Master.
Alarm raised, SSAS activated, all deck
lights were turned on, PA announcement
made, and crews were instructed to stayinside their cabin. Hearing the alarm, therobbers escaped with the stolen engine
spares. Incident reported to Singapore
and Indonesian coastguard.
Duty crew onboard the tanker underway
noticed three robbers in the engine room
workshop store. The crew immediately
notified the bridge. Alarm raised andcrew mustered. Seeing the alerted crew,
the robbers escaped with stolen ship’s
spares. Incident reported to Singapore
VTIS.
Duty crew onboard an anchored tanker
noticed two robbers on the forecastle.
The AB shouted and immediately
notified the bridge. Seeing the alerted
crew, the robbers escaped with stolen
ship's stores and property. The incident
was reported to the Port Authorities
through the local agent.
Robbers boarded the ship underway,
stole ship’s spares, and escaped
unnoticed. The theft was noticed by dutycrew during routine rounds.
Duty engine crew onboard the ship
underway noticed two unauthorized
persons in the engine room. The crew
immediately informed the C/E who
notified the bridge. Alarm raised andcrew mustered. Seeing the crewalertness, the robbers escaped. A search
was carried out throughout the ship.
Nothing reported missing.
Alert crew onboard the tanker underway
noticed three unauthorized persons
onboard. Alarm raised, resulting in theICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
BoardedPanama15042
9235476
Embrace
Bulk Carrier
Palau
13712
9044023

Singapore
Straits

Super Star
General Cargo
Panama9932
9469247
Aegean Angel
TankerGreece81074
9290323

01:15N –104:11E,
Singapore
Straits

43.

15.10.2021
1445 UTC
Steaming
Boarded44.

19,10.2021
1809 UTC
Steaming
Boarded45.

27.10.2021
1518 UTC
Steaming
Boarded46.

27.10.2021
1710 UTC
Steaming
Boarded

Aegean Angel
TankerGreece81074
9290323

01:16.90N –104:19.90E,
Singapore
Straits

47.

03.11.2021
1702 UTC
Steaming
BoardedRomandie
Bulk Carrier
Switzerland
22697
9542829

01:14.9N –104:01.7E,
Singapore
Straits

48.

24.11.2021
1700 - 2200
UTC
Anchored
Boarded24.11.2021
1900-2200
UTC
Steaming
BoardedNYK Fushimi
Container
Singapore
44854
9487964
BW Kronborg
Product Tanker
Singapore
42048
9307786

JakartaAnchorage,
Indonesia

50.

28.11.2021
2000 UTC
Steaming
Boarded

01:14.6N –104:01.7E,
Singapore
Straits

51.

30.11.2021
1638 UTC
Steaming

Gladiator
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
17018
9445033
CH Doris
Bulk Carrier
Korea South49.

01:17.02N –104:13.85E,
Singapore
Straits

01:14.12N –103:58.24E,
Singapore
Straits

01:15.80N –104:12.68E,
Singapore
Straits

01:14.38N –104:02.74E,

38

persons escaping without stealing
anything. Incident reported to Singapore
VTIS.
A ship underway was boarded by fiveunauthorized persons. Duty crew
noticed the intruders and closed all
doors and notified the bridge. Alarm
was raised and crew mustered, resulting
in the intruders escaping without
stealing anything. Incident was reported
to the port authorities and MMEA
through local agent. MMEA responded
and intercepted the ship to provide
assistance. The ship was then escorted
and instructed to anchor to allow
MMEA to board and investigate.
Five robbers boarded the ship underway
and attempted to enter the engine room.
Alert crew noticed the attempted breakin and raised the alarm resulting in therobbers escaping empty handed.
Duty crew onboard the tanker underway
noticed three robbers boarding using aladder. Alarm raised and crew mustered.
The robbers attempted to enter thesteering gear room but escaped onhearing the alerted crew. Incident
reported to VTIS. All crew safe.
Nothing reported stolen.
Alert crew onboard the tanker underway
noticed one robber onboard and heading
towards the steering gear room. Alarm
raised and crew mustered resulting in
the robber escaping without stealing
anything. Incident reported to VTIS.
Duty crew onboard the ship underway
noticed four robbers onboard andattempting to enter the steering gearroom. Alarm raised and crew musteredresulting in the persons escaping. All
crew safe. Nothing reported stolen.
Incident reported Singapore VTIS.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship and escaped with stolen enginesspares. All crew reported safe.

Unnoticed, robbers boarded the tanker
underway and escaped with ship’s
spares. The theft was noticed by the 2/E
during routine rounds. Further checks
identified footprints on the steering flat
floor.
Four robbers boarded the ship underway
and escaped with stolen engine spares.
All crew reported safe.

Two robbers boarded the ship
underway. Alarm raised and crew
mustered resulting in the persons

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

52.

Boarded19992
9489247

Singapore
Straits

18.12.2021
1610 UTC
Steaming
Boarded

Seacon 8
Bulk Carrier
Hong Kong
33044
9433107

01:14.5N –104:02.0E,
Singapore
Straits

escaping. All crew safe. Nothing
reported stolen. Incident reported toSingapore VTIS.
Four robbers in a speed boat approachedand boarded the ship underway. Alertcrew noticed the robbers at the engine
room store and informed the bridge.
General alarm was raised, and crew
mustered. Hearing the alarm and seeing
the alerted crew, the robbers escaped. A
search was made throughout the ship.
Nothing reported stolen. Incident
reported to VTIS.

EAST ASIA
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

15.03.2021
1701-2300
UTC
Anchored
BoardedName Withheld
Bulk Carrier
Liberia36421-

20:54.9N –107:16.7E,
Campha Port,
VietnamUnnoticed, robbers boarded the mooredship. They broke into two crew cabins,stole ship and crew cash, and escaped.
Local authorities informed and an
investigation was carried out.

INDIAN SUB-CONTINENT
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

13.07.2021
Early
Morning
Hours
BerthedBoardedNord Penguin
Bulk Carrier
Singapore
43810
9687186

22:02.48N –088:05.28E,
Haldia Port,
India

2.

18.11.2021
1450 UTC
Anchored
BoardedIki
General Cargo
Panama13694
9300881

22:47N –070:02E,
KandlaAnchorage,
India

Unnoticed, robbers boarded the berthedship. Duty engine crew noticed thepadlock of the entrance door to theengine room broken and spares missing.
Alarm raised, crew mustered, and asearch was carried out. The incident wasreported to the local agent.
Alert crew onboard an anchored ship
noticed two unauthorised persons on theforecastle deck entering the bosun store.
Alarm raised and crew mustered.
Hearing the alarm and seeing the crewalertness, the persons escaped. A search
was made. Nothing reported stolen.
Incident reported to Port Maritime
Security Officer.

AMERICAS
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

05.01.2021
0053 UTC
Anchored
Boarded

Sagittarius
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
17025
9550254

18:38N –072:37W,
Port-au-Prince
Bay,
Haiti

Duty officer onboard an anchored ship
noticed a suspicious echo on the radar
and asked the security patrol toinvestigate. The security patrol noticed aboat with around six robbers armed witha gun boarding using a ladder withhooks. Alarm raised and crew retreated39

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

2.

06.01.2021
Anchored
BoardedPrague Express
Container
Germany
93750
9450399

10:18.41N –075:33.66W,
CartagenaCharlie
Anchorage,
Colombia

3.

09.01.2021
0855 UTC
Steaming
BoardedDuesseldorf
Express
Container
Bermuda
53523
9143556

10:15.7N –076:22.9W,
Around 45nm
West of
Cartagena Sea
Buoy Pilot
Boarding
Ground,Colombia

4.

13.01.2021
0400 UTC
BerthedBoardedNord Hudson
Bulk Carrier
Denmark
34617
9696797

Santana Port,
Brazil5.

04.02.2021
1200 UTC
Anchored
Boarded12:01.61S –077:13.37W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

6.

13.02.2021
0145 UTC
Anchored
BoardedMorning
Margareta
Vehicle Carrier
Singapore
51917
9367580
Torm Arawa
Product Tanker
Singapore
30302
95435487.

13.02.2021
0935 UTC
Steaming
BoardedPacific Trader
Container
Cyprus9957
9406922

11:01.35N –074:47.23W,
Magdalena
River Passage,
Colombia

12:00.62S –077:11.86W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

40

into the accommodation. The robbers
threatened the Ch/Engr attempting tosecure an open accommodation door.
Incident reported to the Coast Guard and
PFSO. The Coast Guard responded andboarded the ship to carry out a search andinvestigate. Ship’s properties reported
stolen. Crew and ship safe.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship and escaped with ship’s properties.
Onboard investigation revealed that thehawse pipe protection device wasdestroyed and the bosun store’s padlock
was damaged. The Authorities were
informed through local agent.
Around ten persons in a small craft
approached and boarded the drifting
ship. Alarm raised public announcement
made, crew mustered, and security
messages sent. Port Control instructed
the ship to proceed to pilot station. The
crew conducted a search and reported
ship’s properties stolen. The search party
also noticed that some intruders werestill onboard, and all crew immediately
retreated into the accommodation. Upon
arriving at the pilot station, a coast guard
boat arrived and escorted the ship to theinner anchorage, where the police andcoast guard boarded and searched theship. Five intruders were found anddetained.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded the ship,stole ship’s properties, and escaped. The
theft was noticed by the duty crew during
routine rounds. Incident reported to local
police who boarded the ship forinvestigation.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship, stole ship’s stores and escaped. The
theft was discovered by the duty AB onrounds. Incident reported to local agents.

Robbers armed with knives boarded ananchored tanker. Duty crew on routine
rounds noticed the robbers on theforecastle,
retreatedintotheaccommodation and raised the alarm.
Upon hearing the alarm, the robbers
escaped in a wooden motorboat. Crew
mustered and a search was carried out. It
was reported that ship’s stores werestolen. Local Authorities informed
through local agent.
Five robbers boarded the ship underpilotage. Alert crew noticed the robbers.
Master raised the alarm, crew musteredinside accommodation and pilot notified
the port authorities. Seeing the alerted
crew, the robbers escaped with stolen

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

8.

06.03.2021
2330 UTC
Steaming
BoardedPacoraContainer
Jamaica
7464
9404821

02:20S –079:58W,
Around 10nm
South of
Guayaquil,
Ecuador9.

11.03.2021
0210 UTC
Anchored
BoardedNordic Seoul
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
22860
9649861

11:59.57S –077:14.10W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

10.

16.03.2021
2230 UTC
Anchored
Boarded11.

17.03.2021
0100 UTC
Anchored
BoardedPort Osaka
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
35207
9838541
Baker River
Bulk Carrier
Hong Kong
31336
9284269

12:01.1S –077:10.5W,
CallaoAnchorage,Peru
12:00.92S –077:11.99W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

12.

24.03.2021
0545 UTC
Anchored
BoardedChristoph Schulte
LPG Tanker
Singapore
9110
9368778

10:19.2N –075:31.8W,
Cartagena Inner
Anchorage,
Colombia

13.

14.04.2021
0040 UTC
Anchored
Boarded

Seasuccess
LPG Tanker
Malta
25079
9787340

12:00.59S –077:13.12W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

14.

04.05.2021
0030 UTC
Anchored
BoardedAdmiralProduct Tanker
Gibraltar
16914
9234616

11:59.5S –077:12.4W,
CallaoAnchorage No.
8,

41

ship’s properties. The ship wasinstructed to anchor to allow the coast
guard to board and investigate.
Six armed robbers in two fast boats
approached and boarded the ship underpilotage. Master raised the alarm, SSAS
activated and contacted Guayaquil
Authorities. The robbers took hostage
one crew member and stole cargoes fromthe containers. Before escaping, they
released the crew without any injury. It
was reported that nine containers wereopened and cargo damaged.
Duty crew onboard an anchored ship
noticed two robbers armed with knives
on the forward mooring station andnotified the duty officer. Alarm raised,
PA announcement made, and crew
mustered. Upon hearing the alarm, therobbers escaped with stolen ship’s
stores. Incident reported to local VTS
and a Coast Guard patrol boat was
dispatched to search the waters aroundthe ship.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship, broke into the forecastle store, stole
ship’s properties and escaped. The theft
was noticed by duty crew on routine
security rounds.
Eight robbers armed with knives boarded
an anchored ship. Duty AB was taken
hostage, tied up, and later released by therobbers before escaping with stolen
ship’s properties. Incident reported to
local port authorities and a Coast Guard
patrol boat was dispatched to assist.
Three robbers armed with knives
boarded an anchored tanker. The duty
AB noticed the three robbers andimmediately notified the bridge. Alarm
raised and crew mustered. Seeing thealerted crew, the robbers escaped in aboat with four other robbers. Ship’s
properties and stores were reported
stolen. Incident reported to local
authorities. The Colombian Coast Guard
responded and boarded the tanker forinvestigation.
Three robbers armed with knives
boarded an anchored tanker. Tworobbers assaulted a duty AB on routine
rounds. Alarm raised and crew mustered.
Seeing the alerted crew, the robbers
escaped with stolen ship’s properties.
Incident reported to authorities throughlocal agent.
Four robbers armed with knives boarded
an anchored tanker. They took the duty
AB hostage and tied him up. The robbers
stole the AB’s personal belongings andship’s properties and escaped. The duty

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
Peru

15.

28.06.2021
2100 UTC
Anchored
BoardedMaersk Borneo
Product Tanker
Singapore
19758
9341445
Maersk Borneo
Product Tanker
Singapore
19758
9341445

12:01S –077:13W,
CallaoAnchorage,Peru
12:01S –077:13W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

16.

30.06.2021
0530 UTC
Anchored
Boarded17.

13.07.2021
0020 UTC
Anchored
BoardedName Withheld
Product Tanker
Denmark29331-

12:01.4S –077:12.6W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

18.

16.07.2021
0130 UTC
Anchored
BoardedMaestro Diamond
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
22872
9711705

18:34.10N –072:24.05W,
Port Au Prince
Anchorage,
Haiti

19.

29.07.2021
0530 UTC
Anchored
Boarded

Otago Harbour
Bulk Carrier
Hong Kong
19829
9268928

10:19.42N –075:31.73W,
Cartagena
Anchorage,
Colombia

20.

30.07.2021
0500 UTC
Anchored
BoardedIkebana
General Cargo
Norway33448
9186209

00:03.80S –051:06.03W,
Fazendinha
Anchorage,
Brazil21.

18.08.2021
0630 UTC
Anchored
Boarded22.

31.08.2021
0825 UTC
Anchored
BoardedSantos Eagle
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
36474
9699347
Name Withheld
Product Tanker
Denmark
29609-

12:00.71S –077:11.63W,
CallaoAnchorage,Peru
00:03.7S –051:06.1W,
Fazendinha
Anchorage,
Brazil42

AB was later found by another duty
crew.
Alarm
raisedandPAannouncement made. Owners and port
authorities notified.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredtanker and escaped with ship’s stores.
The theft was discovered by the dutycrew during routine rounds.
Duty watchman onboard an anchoredtanker noticed three robbers on theforecastle. The watchman immediately
reported to the OOW. Alarm raised andcrew mustered. Upon hearing the alarmand seeing the crew alertness, therobbers escaped without stealing
anything. TRAMAR port control
informed, and a coast guard patrol boatcame and searched around the tanker.
Five robbers boarded an anchored tanker
using ropes. Duty crew on routine rounds
noticed the robbers and raised the alarm.
Hearing the alarm and seeing the crewalertness, the robbers escaped in an old
motorboat. Crew mustered and a search
was carried out. Padlock to bosun store
found cut. Nothing reported stolen.
TRAMAR port control informed. Patrol
boat in the vicinity notified.
Five robbers armed with a gun andknives boarded an anchored ship via
long ladders. General alarm sounded andcrew proceeded into citadel. Upon
hearing the alarm and seeing the crewalertness, the robbers escaped without
stealing anything. The incident wasreported to the Port Authorities.
Duty crew onboard an anchored ship
noticed two robbers on the forecastle.
Alarm raised and crew mustered. Seeing
the alerted crew, the robbers escapedwith stolen ship’s property. Incident
reported to VTS.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship and escaped with stolen ship’s
stores. The theft was noticed by the dutycrew during routine rounds. The incident
was reported to the Harbour Masterthrough the local agent.
Seven robbers armed with knives
boarded an anchored ship. They took the
duty AB hostage, tied his hands, stole
ship’s stores and escaped. Incident
reported to the local authorities.
Alert crew onboard an anchored tanker
noticed two robbers on the forecastle.
Alarm was raised, resulting in therobbers escaping without stealing
anything. Incident was reported to thepilot station through VHF Ch 11.

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
Warnow Beluga
Container
Antigua andBarbuda15334
9437127
BochemLuxembourg
Product Tanker
Liberia
12136
9737565

12:01.23S –077:11.02W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

Unnoticed, robbers boarded an anchoredship and escaped with stolen ship’s
stores. The theft was noticed by the dutycrew during routine rounds.

11:59.9S –077:11.9W,
CallaoAnchorage,Peru

26.09.2021
2355 UTC
Anchored
Boarded

Nordorinoco
Bulk Carrier
Portugal
23974
9741712

12:01.5S –077:11.7W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

26.

09.11.2021
0110 UTC
Anchored
BoardedLord Vishnu
Vehicle Carrier
Singapore
51917
9367578

12:00.96S –077:11.59W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

27.

23.11.2021
0600 UTC
Steaming
BoardedAS Sabrina
Container
Liberia
18123
9387463

18:39.97N –072:23.55W,
Lafiteau Pilot
Station,
Haiti

28.

04.12.2021
0030 UTC
Anchored
BoardedJose do Patrocinio
TankerBrazil81429
9453860

12:00.32S –077:12.09W,
CallaoAnchorage,
Peru

29.

05.12.2021
0506 UTC
BerthedBoardedNord Steady
Product Tanker
Singapore
29983
9629706

03:53.42N –077:03.73W,
Buenaventura
Port,
Colombia

30.

11.12.2021
0108 UTC
BerthedBoardedLesedi Queen
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
29290
9811490

18:34.4N –072:20.9W,
Port-Au-Prince
Port,
Haiti

Duty crews onboard an anchored tanker
noticed around four robbers armed withknives on the forecastle deck. Alarm
raised and crew mustered. Upon hearing
the alarm and seeing the crew alertness,the robbers escaped with stolen ship’s
stores. TRAMAR port control was
informed, and a coast guard patrol boat
searched the waters around the tanker.
Six robbers in two boats approached andboarded an anchored ship using ropes.
They tried to break into the bosun store.
Duty crew noticed the robbers and raised
the alarm. The robbers threatened the
duty deck crew with knives and escaped
without stealing anything. TRAMAR
port control informed. A patrol boat was
dispatched to search the waters aroundthe ship.
Three robbers in a small boat approachedand boarded an anchored ship. They
threatened the duty crew who managed
to escape and inform the bridge. Alarm
raised and crew mustered. Seeing thecrew alertness, the robbers escaped withstolen ship’s stores. TRAMAR port
control informed.
Three robbers armed with a gun andknives boarded the drifting ship. They
attacked, injured, and tied up the dutycrew. General alarm sounded and nonessential crew mustered in citadel.
Seeing the crew alertness, the robbers
escaped with stolen ship’s properties.
Incident reported to Lafiteau Pilot
Station.
Alert crew onboard an anchored tanker
noticed three unauthorized persons
armed with knives on the forecastle.
Alarm raised and crew mustered,resulting in the persons escaping without
stealing anything. Incident reported to
the Port Authorities. Police officers
boarded the tanker for investigation.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded the tanker
and escaped with stolen ship’s
properties. The theft was noticed by thecrew during gauging of bunker tanks.
The incident was reported to the Port
Authorities through the local agent.
Four persons armed with guns andknives boarded the berthed ship. Dutycrew on routine rounds were confronted
by the robbers who pointed guns at themwhile they lowered ship’s stores into a

23.

13.09.2021
1200 UTC
Anchored
Boarded24.

15.09.2021
0025 UTC
Anchored
Boarded25.

43

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

31.

24.12.2021
0055 UTC
Anchored
BoardedTN Dawn
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
31532
9373993

12:01.64S –077:12.18W,
CallaoAnchorage,Peru

waiting boat. The crew took cover in themooring winch and shouted for help. The
2/O immediately raised the alarm. There
was an exchange of fire between thearmed robbers and the locally appointed
armed guards onboard the ship resulting
in two robbers being killed. The others
escaped. Haiti Port Security notified.
Seven robbers in a wooden boat
approached an anchored ship. Threerobbers armed with knives boarded theship, broke into the forecastle store, stole
ship’s stores and threatened the crew onroutine rounds. Alarm raised and crew
mustered resulting in the robbers
escaping. Incident reported to TRAMAR
and the coast guard boarded the ship for
inspection.

AFRICA (EXCLUDING SOMALIA / GULF OF ADEN / RED SEA)
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

04.01.2021
0048 UTC
Anchored
BoardedNiledutch Breda
Container
Cyprus39106
9612765

04:42.93S –011:44.21E,
Pointe Noire North
Anchorage,
The Congo2.

18.01.2021
0300 UTC
Anchored
BoardedGreen Freezer
Refrigerated Cargo
Ship
Bahamas5084
8819304

06:02.00S –012:21.50E,
BananaAnchorage,
Democratic
Republic of the
Congo

3.

23.01.2021
0535 UTC
Steaming
BoardedMozartContainer
Liberia
28616
9337274

01:04.13N –005:04.22E,
Around 98nm NWof Sao Tome
Island,Sao Tome andPrincipe

4.

30.01.2021
0424 UTC
Steaming
BoardedRowayton Eagle
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
35812
957521602:55.0N –001:56.6E,
Around 200nm SE
of Accra,
Ghana

Robbers armed with knives boarded ananchored ship. General alarm sounded
and all crew mustered in the citadel. The
robbers stole ship’s stores and escaped.
The incident was reported to Port
Control. All crew reported safe.
Three robbers in a small wooden boat
approached and boarded an anchoredship. Duty crew on routine rounds
noticed the robbers at the forecastle
store
and
retreatedintotheaccommodation. Alarm raised and crew
mustered. Upon hearing the alarm andseeing the crew alertness, the robbers
escaped with the stolen ship’s stores.
Port Control contacted through VHF
Ch.16. No response received.
While underway, the ship was boardedby an unknown number of pirates. One
crew killed. Fifteen kidnapped.
Remaining three crew managed tonavigate to a safe port. On 05.04.2021,
the Owners confirmed that the 15
kidnapped crew were released safely on
12.02.2021.
Crew onboard the ship underway
noticed pirates boarding and retreatedinto the citadel. Upon hearing of theincident, the IMB PRC immediately
alerted and liaised with Regional
Authorities and the vessel operators. A
Ghanaian Navy patrol boat was
dispatched but was unable to assist due
to technical difficulties. Owners advised
the Master to sail towards Nigerianwaters to rendezvous with a Nigerian

44

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

5.

06.02.2021
2254 UTC
Steaming
BoardedSea Phantom
Product Tanker
Marshall Islands
8503
9326653

02:00.02N –008:15.02E,
Around 50nm NE
of Principe Island,
Sao Tome andPrincipe

6.

08.02.2021
0620 UTC
Steaming
Hijacked

Lian Peng Yu 809
Fishing Vessel
China-

00:51.43S –007:20.20E,
Around 83nm
WSW of Port
Gentil,Gabon

7.

09.02.2021
1222 UTC
Steaming
BoardedMaria E
Product Tanker
Panama7064
933782201:35N – 005:07E,
Around 112nm
NW of Sao Tome
Island,Sao Tome andPrincipe8.

26.02.2021
0230–0300
UTC
Anchored
Boarded08:45.12S –013:17.08E,
LuandaAnchorage,
Angola9.

06.03.2021
0700 UTC
Anchored
Boarded10.

10.03.2021
0700 UTC
Anchored
BoardedName Withheld
Offshore Supply
Ship
France3147
Name Withheld
Offshore Supply
Ship
Luxembourg
1733
Flensburg
Container
Cyprus9990
9252773

DoualaAnchorage,
Cameroon

08:44.5S –013:15.1E,
LuandaAnchorage,
Angola45

security team, which allowed the crew
to emerge from the citadel and sail,under escort, to a safe port. All crew
reported safe.
Eight armed pirates boarded the tanker
underway. Alert crew noticed thepirates and retreated into the citadel.
The pirates damaged communicationand navigation equipment. Upon
hearing of the incident, the IMB PRC
immediately alerted and liaised with
Regional Authorities including a
Portuguese Navy warship. Crew
managed to navigate the tanker to try
and rendezvous with dispatched
Cameroonian and Equatorial Guinean
patrol boats. The tanker was later
escorted to a safe port. All crew reported
safe.
A fishing vessel with fourteen crew
onboard was boarded and hijacked by
pirates. The IMB PRC liaised with
regional authorities and international
warship in the region. The hijacked
fishing vessel was later intercepted by
Gabon Authorities on the 12.02.2021.
Ten crew members were reported
kidnapped earlier and the remainingcrew members sailed the vessel to
Gabon waters. On 06.03.2021, the 10
kidnapped crew were released safely.
Crew onboard the tanker underway
noticed pirates boarding and retreatedinto the citadel. The IMB PRC
immediately alerted and liaised with theoperators, Regional Authorities and aninternational warship in the vicinity
which was able to escort the tanker until
an Equatorial Guinea patrol boat took
over and stayed with the tanker until it
was safely anchored. All crew reported
safe.
Robbers boarded an anchored ship,stole ship properties and escaped
unnoticed. The theft was noticed by the
duty AB during routine rounds. Incident
reported to port authorities.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded ananchored ship. The theft was noticed by
the bosun during routine rounds. Search
conducted and several ship’s properties
reported stolen. Incident reported to
local port authorities.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded ananchored ship. The theft was noticed by
the duty Bosun during routine rounds.
The crew conducted a search andreported ship’s properties stolen.
Incident reported to local agent.

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
11.

11.03.2021
0120 UTC
Anchored
BoardedMaersk Venturer
Drilling Ship
Singapore
60683
9633563

04:44.1N –001:35.6W,
Takoradi
Anchorage,
Ghana

12.

11.03.2021
1512 UTC
Steaming
BoardedName Withheld
Chemical Tanker
Malta
14034
-

02:48N – 002:36E,
Around 212nm
South of Cotonou,
Benin

13.

14.03.2021
0731 UTC
Steaming
BoardedName Withheld
Offshore Support
VesselLuxembourg
6146-

02:58N – 002:53E,
Around 208nm
South of Lagos,
Nigeria14.

02.04.2021
0150 UTC
Anchored
Boarded15.

23.04.2021
0903 UTC
Steaming
BoardedCommon Faith
Bulk Carrier
Greece32987
9610092
Contship New
Container
Cyprus9957
9373905

09:14N –013:49W,
Conakry
Anchorage,
Guinea01:27N – 004:38E,
Around 132nm
NW of Neves,
Sao Tome andPrincipe

16.

29.04.2021
0100 UTC
Anchored
BoardedSonga Calabria
Container
Liberia
40541
9477309

08:41.3S –013:17.7E,
Luanda Outer
Anchorage,
Angola17.

19.05.2021
1830 UTC
Steaming
BoardedAtlantic Princess
Fishing Vessel
Ghana
768
812441204:33.5N –000:15.6E,
Around 66nm
South of Tema,
Ghana

46

An anchored ship was boarded by fourunauthorised persons. Alert crew
noticed the persons and informed thebridge. Incident reported to local port
authorities and a security patrol teamwas dispatched. Nothing reported
stolen.
Nine armed pirates boarded the tanker
underway. Alarm raised and distressmessages activated. A Nigerian
Security Vessel was dispatched to assist
the tanker. By the time the security
vessel arrived at the location the pirates
kidnapped 15 crew and escaped. The
tanker and remaining crew were
escorted to a safe port.
Armed pirates attacked and boarded thevessel underway. Alarm raised,
Authorities notified, and all crew
members retreated into the citadel. A
Nigerian Security Vessel responded.
The pirates managed to escape before
the arrival of the Security Vessel. Crew
reported safe but there were somedamages to the vessel. The vessel
proceeded to a safe port under the escortof the Security Vessel.
Four persons armed with a gun andknives boarded an anchored ship. Theystole cash and crew personal belongingsand escaped. No injuries reported tocrew members.
Crew onboard the ship underway
noticed pirates in a skiff approaching.
Alarm raised and all crew mustered in
the citadel. Owners and authorities were
notified, and an Italian navy frigate
proceeded to intervene. The pirates
boarded the ship but left after a few
hours as they were unable to get accessto any crew. The Italian navy frigate
approached and escorted the ship
towards its destination. All crew
reported safe.
Duty crew onboard an anchored ship
noticed two unauthorised persons on theforecastle deck and notified the bridge.
Ship’s horn sounded, crew mustered,and a search was carried out. Incident
reported to port authorities and a patrol
boat was dispatched to investigate.
Nothing reported stolen.
While underway, the fishing vessel wasapproached, and fired upon and boarded
by pirates in a small craft. The pirates
stole crew personal belongings,
kidnapped five crews and escaped. The
Ghanaian Navy was notified, and apatrol boat was dispatched to escort thefishing vessel back to Tema. On

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

18.

29.05.2021
0255 UTC
BerthedBoardedName Withheld
Offshore Supply
Vessel
Malta
3601
-

04:41.70N –007:10.02E,
Port Onne,
Nigeria19.

31.05.2021
1930 UTC
Steaming
BoardedIris S
Fishing Vessel
Ghana
498
8210493

04:33N – 002:23E,
Around 104nm
South of Cotonou,
Benin

20.

31.05.2021
2220 UTC
Anchored
BoardedName Withheld
Product Tanker
Saudi Arabia
29736-

14:21.8S –040:42.7E,
Fernao Veloso
Bay Anchorage,
Mozambique

21.

08.07.2021
0330 UTC
Anchored
Boarded

09:18.2N –013:49.5W,
Conakry Roads,
Guinea22.

01.08.2021
0330 UTC
Anchored
BoardedMachitis
Bulk Carrier
Bahamas11194
9151395
Carmencita
Bulk Carrier
Norway32379
940317623.

05.09.2021
0007 UTC
Anchored
Boarded

TampenOffshore Supply
VesselSt Kitts and Nevis
3325
927689600:22.38N –009:24.27E,
Owendo Inner
Anchorage,
Gabon

09:16.40N –013:48.69W,
Conakry
Anchorage,
Guinea47

28.06.2021, the five kidnapped crew
members were safely released.
Robbers in a canoe approached theberthed offshore supply vessel. One
robber armed with a knife boarded thevessel while the vessel’s crew were
engaged in cargo operations. The duty
AB on deck patrol spotted the robber
attempting to steal a hose coupling.
Alarm raised. Seeing the alerted crew,
the robber jumped overboard andescaped. Crew mustered and a search
was carried out.
Armed pirates in two skiffs approachedand boarded a fishing vessel. They
ransacked the vessel, kidnapped fivecrew and escaped. The remaining crew
reported the incident to the Authorities
and a Ghanaian patrol boat escorted thevessel to a safe port. Crew reported thata mother vessel was sighted in thevicinity. On 01 Aug 2021, the five
kidnapped crew were released safely.
Two robbers armed with knives boarded
an anchored tanker. Duty AB noticed
the two robbers and informed the OOW.
Alarm raised and crew mustered. Seeing
the alerted crew, the robbers escaped
without stealing anything. Incident
reported to the Port Authorities via thelocal agent.
Seven robbers armed with a gun andknives boarded an anchored ship, stolecrew personal belongings and escaped.
Port Control notified. All crew reported
safe.
Four persons in a motorboat, armed withguns and knives boarded an anchoredship. They took the bosun as hostageand entered the bridge. The duty officer
managed to escape and raised the alarmon the PA system. The persons took thebosun to the Master’s cabin and forced
their way in. The robbers stole ship’s
and Master’s cash and other personal
effects and forced the Master toaccompany them to the forecastle from
where they escaped. SSAS activatedand port control notified who later
boarded the ship for investigations.
Five persons in a speed boat armed withguns approached, fired upon, andboarded an anchored offshore supply
vessel. Alarm raised and crew secured
themselves in the vessel. Two crew
members were injured due to the firingand required hospitalization. One crew
reported missing. Remaining crew
onboard safe. Local authorities notified.
On 29.10.2021, the Owners confirmed

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

24.

25.10.2021
0855 UTC
Steaming
BoardedMSC Lucia
Container
Panama21887
8413887

02:13N – 004:50E,
Around 149nm
SW of Brass,
Nigeria25.

01.11.2021
0835 UTC
Steaming
BoardedNA
Passenger Craft
Nigeria-

04:24.05N –006:15.05E,
Bayelsa State
Waterways,
Nigeria26.

12.11.2021
0230 UTC
Anchored
Boarded06:04.6S –012:18.7E,
Soyo Anchorage,
Angola27.

08.12.2021
0500 UTC
Anchored
BoardedPacific Dolphin
Offshore Supply
Ship
Singapore
6641
9631400
Dalarna
Bulk Carrier
Singapore
24166
962612028.

13.12.2021
0100 UTC
Anchored
Boarded

TampenOffshore Supply
Ship
St Kitts and Nevis
3325
927689600:18.31N –009:24.03E,
OwendoAnchorage,
Gabon

29.

13.12.2021
1427 UTC
Steaming
BoardedName Withheld
Container
Liberia
65059-

03:11.42N –007:49.02E,
Around 46nm SW
of Luba,Equatorial Guinea

06:20.72N –
010:53.20W,
Monrovia Outer
Anchorage,
Liberia48

that the missing/kidnapped crew wassafely released on 28 Oct 2021.
While underway, the ship was boardedby an unknown number of pirates andthe crew retreated into the citadel. On
being notified of the incident, the IMB
Piracy Reporting Centre immediately
alerted and liaised with the Regional
Authorities and international warships
to request for assistance. A RussianNavy warship and its helicopter
responded and proceeded to renderassistance resulting in the crew and ship
being safe. The pirates escaped withstolen ship’s properties.
The passenger craft was boarded byarmed robbers while underway in the
Bayelsa State Waterways. The robbers
stole personal effects of the passengers
and escaped with the passenger craft’s
engine. Nigerian authorities dispatcheda patrol boat to render assistance. All
passengers reported safe.
Unnoticed, robbers boarded ananchored offshore supply ship, stole
ship’s stores, and escaped. All crewsafe. Incident reported to local agents.

Duty crew on routine rounds onboard an
anchored ship noticed footprints near
the lifeboat and informed the OOW.
Emergencyalarm
raised,crew
mustered, and search carried out.
Lifeboat stores reported stolen. Crew
and ship safe.
Duty crew on routine rounds onboard an
anchored vessel noticed an unauthorised
person moving the barbed wires to makeway for his accomplices who werearmed with AK-47 rifles. Alarm raisedand crew mustered in the citadel. Port
Authority was informed, and the Gabon
Authorities boarded the vessel toinvestigate.
An unknown number of pirates boarded
the ship underway. Danish Navy
warship was notified and proceeded torender assistance. The pirates escapedwith six kidnapped crew. It is reported
that one crew was injured during theincident.

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021

ATTEMPTED ATTACKS
1 January – 31 December 2021
SOUTH EAST ASIA (EXCLUDING MALACCA STRAITS)
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

09.05.2021
1439 UTC
Steaming
Attempted

Astro Perseus
TankerGreece80620
9280873

01:14.80N –104:03.00E,
Singapore Straits

2.

21.09.2021
1518 UTC
AnchoredAttempted

Maersk Caelum
Product Tanker
Denmark
30948
9724582

01:21.3S –116:59.8E,
Balikpapan
Anchorage,
Indonesia

3.

02.12.2021
1230 UTC
Steaming
Attempted

Nuri Bey
Bulk Carrier
Turkey43767
9569750

01:03.0N –103:37.8E,
Singapore Straits

Duty officer onboard the tanker
underway identified a wooden boat
approaching from astern and noticed
persons attempting to board using a rope
attached to a hook and a wooden ladder.
Alarm was raised, speed increased,course altered, deck lights switched on
and search lights directed towards theboat. Seeing the alerted crew, the boat
abandoned the attempted boarding andmoved away. VTIS notified.
Duty crew onboard an anchored tanker
noticed an unauthorized person
attempting to board via the hawse pipe.
Alarm raised and crew musteredresulting in the person aborting theattempt. The tanker and crew reported
safe. Incident reported to VTS and local
agent.
The ship underway noticed a boat
flashing a light towards the bridge. As
the ship altered course, the boat
followed and continued to flash thelight. Alert crew noticed another boat
approaching from the quarter andattempting to board using hooks
attached with ropes. Master raised thealarm and crew mustered on the poop
deck, resulting in the persons aborting
the attempted boarding. Incident
reported to Singapore VTIS.

AMERICAS
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

03.07.2021
0212 UTC
AnchoredAttempted

Santa Barbara
Bulk Carrier
Singapore
34830
9633006

12:00.43S –077:12.85W,
Callao Anchorage,
Peru

2.

15.07.2021
0330 UTC
AnchoredAttempted

Telford 28
Offshore Support
VesselGibraltar
13062
8769638

18:48.8N –091:46.3W,
Ciudad delCarmenAnchorage,
MexicoDuty AB onboard an anchored ship
noticed robbers attempting to board via
the anchor chain. Alarm raised and crew
mustered. Seeing the crew alertness, therobbers aborted and moved away.
Incident reported to VTS.
Around five persons in a fishing boat
armed with a gun approached ananchored vessel. Seeing the armed
guard onboard, they aborted and moved
away. Incident reported to the Port
Authority.

49

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
3.

05.08.2021
0612 UTC
Steaming
Attempted

CMA CGM
AlaskaContainer
Malta
1402599469572

02:29.9S –080:04.8W,
Around 1nm Southof Puerto La Seca,
Ecuador4.

18.10.2021
1110 UTC
Steaming
Fired uponLars Maersk
Container
Denmark
50624
92943795.

23.12.2021
1055 UTC
Steaming
Fired upon

CMA CGM
MundraContainer
Hong Kong
1129679767998

03:11.37S –080:02.80W,
Around 1.64nm
NW of Punta
Jambeli,
Ecuador
02:35.5S –080:08.5W,
Around 1.6nm SEof Puerto Pizarro,
EcuadorDuty crew onboard a ship underway
noticed a speed boat with five persons
onboard alongside the ship. Alarm
raised and local authorities notified.
Seeing the alerted crew, they moved
away. Coast guard officers boarded andescorted the ship to a safe port.
Six persons in a speed boat approached,
fired upon and attempted to board theship underway. Master increased speed
and commenced evasive manoeuvres,
resulting in the speed boat aborting andmoving away. Crew and ship safe.
The ship underway was approached andfired upon by an unknown number ofarmed persons in a speedboat. The
armed guards onboard returned fire
resulting in the persons aborting andmoving away. Crew and ship safe.

AFRICA (SOMALIA / GULF OF ADEN / RED SEA)
Ref

Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

14.01.2021
0849 UTC
Steaming
Attempted

Myrto
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
43012
9518086

12:06.1N –044:26.5E,
Gulf of Aden

While underway, the ship noticed a skiff
approaching. Alarm sounded and allcrew mustered. At a distance of 0.2nm
weapons and ladders were noticed in theskiff. The onboard armed team fired
warning shots, resulting in the skiff
aborting and moving away.

AFRICA (EXCLUDING SOMALIA / GULF OF ADEN / RED SEA)
Ref Date
Time

Name of Ship
Type/Flag/Grt/
IMO Number

Position

Narration

1.

13.01.2021
1900 UTC
Steaming
Fired upon

Maersk Cardiff
Container
Singapore
50869
9529255

02:23.58N –005:31.00E,
Around 120nm SSWof Brass,
Nigeria2.

08.02.2021
0444 UTC
Steaming
Attempted

Seaking
TankerBahamas1613829292187

00:59.8S –007:32.3E,
Around 75nm WSW
of Port Gentil,
Gabon

3.

08.02.2021
1810 UTC
Steaming
Fired upon

Madrid Spirit
LNG Tanker
Spain
90835

00:43.91S –006:07.91E,
Around 50nm SW of
Sao Tome Island,

While underway, the ship was
approached and fired upon by pirates ina small craft. Alarm sounded and allcrew mustered in the citadel. The
incident was reported to the Regional
Authorities. Ship and crew reported
safe.
Crew onboard the drifting tanker
noticed a mother vessel launching askiff with four persons, whichapproached at high speed. Master raised
the alarm, increased speed, took evasive
manoeuvres and non-essential crew
mustered in the citadel. The skiff
managed to come alongside the tanker
but due to the hardening measures takenby the Master, the boarding was
avoided. Crew and tanker reported safe.
Alert crew onboard the tanker
underway noticed a skiff approaching athigh speed. Alarm raised, crew
mustered and SSAS activated. As the50

ICC- IMB Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships Report – 01 January – 31 December 2021
9259276

Sao Tome andPrincipe

4.

06.06.2021
1600 UTC
Steaming
Attempted

CP Tianjin
Bulk Carrier
Marshall Islands
36332
9710505

02:57.82N –002:44.18E,
Around 208nm SSW
of Lagos,
Nigeria5.

31.07.2021
2245 UTC
AnchoredAttempted

MSC Taranto
Container
Liberia
1531159475258

05:35.3N –000:03.2E,
Tema Anchorage,
Ghana

6.

06.09.2021
0445 UTC
AnchoredAttempted

Bulk Bahamas
Bulk Carrier
Liberia
31756
9514315

05:31.26N –000:00.91E,
Tema Anchorage,
Ghana

7.

15.12.2021
1830 UTC
Steaming
Fired upon

TropicalLanding Craft
Equatorial Guinea
489
9318280

02:19.7N –009:25.7E,
Around 21nm Westof Punta Campo,
Equatorial Guinea

51skiff closed, hooks and a ladder were
noticed. The pirates fired upon thetanker causing damage to theaccommodation. Master increased
speed and commenced evasive
manoeuvres, resulting in the skiff
aborting the attack and moving away.
Crew and ship safe.
Six pirates in a skiff, armed withweapons approached and attempted toboard the ship underway. Alarm raisedand crew mustered. Master sent a
distress message, increased speed andcommenced evasive manoeuvres.
Ladders with hook sighted on the skiff.
The pirates showed their weapons to the
Master. After 40 mins of attempting toboard, the pirates aborted and moved
away due to the hardening measurestaken by the Master. Crew and ship
safe.
Duty officer onboard an anchored ship
noticed three persons in a skiff
approaching the ship. Master and crew
notified, and fire hoses directed towards
the skiff resulting in the persons
aborting and moving away. Afteraround 30 minutes the crew noticed theskiff approaching again, but due to thehardening measures, the skiff moved
away. Port Control was notified.
Duty AB onboard an anchored ship
noticed six robbers in a small boat
approaching and immediately informed
the OOW. Alarm raised and ship’s
whistle sounded. The boat camealongside and attempted to throw ahook attached with a rope. The duty AB
kept shouting at the persons who circled
the ship and then moved away. Incident
reported to the port control.
While underway, the vessel wasapproached and fired upon by pirates ina small craft. There was an exchange offire between the pirates and the locallyappointed armed guards onboard thevessel resulting in one armed guard
being injured. Incident reported to local
port authorities.

IMB Piracy Report – January to December 2021

Total number of attacks – 132

IMB Piracy Report – January to December 2021

Total attacks Indian Sub-Continent – 2
Total attacks East & SE Asia – 57

IMB Piracy Report – January to December 2021

Total attacks Gulf of Guinea – 34

IMB Piracy Report – January to December 2021

Total attacks South America, Haiti and Mexico – 36