Armed robbery at sea is an ancient threat that never fully disappeared. Piracy is an act of violence, detention, or depredation committed for private ends by the crew or passengers of a private ship against another ship on the high seas or outside any state’s jurisdiction.

Modern piracy ranges from opportunistic boarding in anchorages to organized attacks with mother ships in open ocean. Hotspots have included the Gulf of Aden, the Gulf of Guinea, and parts of Southeast Asia. Ships transit high-risk areas under best-management practices: enhanced watchkeeping, citadels, speed, and sometimes armed guards.

International naval patrols, industry reporting centers, and coastal state enforcement all contribute to suppression. A successful pirate attack can cost lives, hijack the ship, and disrupt trade. Prevention and rapid reporting remain the first lines of defense.

• Violence or robbery against ships for private ends
• Occurs on the high seas or outside national jurisdiction
• Countered by best practices, guards, and naval presence
• Remains a serious risk in certain regions