Piracy Attacks Jump in January

Global pirate activity more than doubled in January. There were 46 reported attacks last month compared with 17 in December, GAC reports.

The surge in activity was attributed to a spike in attacks off East Africa, where improved weather conditions and increased mother ship activity resulted in 21 attempted attacks, the highest level in six months. Attempted attacks are expected to remain high in the short term. Activity is expected to be highest in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea. However, the rate of successful pirate attacks remains at 9.5 percent.

Four attacks were recorded off West Africa, three of which were considerable distances into the Gulf of Guinea, as pirates moved further out to sea. Attacks up to, and possibly over, 100 nautical miles from the coast are to be expected in short term.

In Asia, attacks jumped to 17, all of which were incidents of robbery in anchorages and terminals. Four attacks were reported in Latin America.

At least 257 crewmembers are currently being held. Two vessels were released from Somalia in January for ransoms of US$11 million. Average ransom amounts are currently US$4.8 million.

Photo shows the surrender of suspected pirates after an attempted attack on the Patino on Jan. 12, 2012.