Less piracy, but more violence at sea: a worrying development

The International Maritime Bureau's (IMB) recent annual report shows a global decline in piracy incidents by 2024. This sounds like good news, but the figures also reveal a disturbing trend: violence against crew members has actually increased sharply. According to the IMB, as many as 126 crew members were taken hostage in 2024, up sharply from 73 in 2023 and 41 in 2022. This shift in crime highlights the need for increased security measures and cooperation within the maritime industry.

Increasing focus on hostages and kidnappings

Although fewer piracy attacks are being reported, criminals are increasingly focusing on more lucrative practices such as kidnapping and holding hostages for ransom. This type of crime not only endangers the welfare of crew members, but also threatens the continuity of global logistics networks. For Neele-Vat, these developments are an important reason to pay extra attention to security and risk management.

The impact on maritime logistics

The rise in violence at sea requires an integrated approach by governments, shipowners and logistics companies. The IMB emphasizes that vigilance, cooperation and information sharing are essential to effectively combat this threat.

Proactive security measures for violence

We value security and proactive measures to minimize risks at sea. As a logistics partner with global operations, we continue to continuously invest in effective security protocols and cooperation with international partners. Through regular assessments and training, we ensure that our personnel are prepared for any threats. In addition, we stay up-to-date with the latest reports and recommendations from organizations such as the IMB.

Safety at sea: a shared responsibility

The growing threat of violence at sea underscores the importance of collective efforts to ensure safe maritime routes. For us, this means remaining committed to innovations, cooperation and awareness. By acting together, we can not only increase the safety of crew members but also ensure the stability of international trade.