Piracy incidents continued into early 2026, with verifiable attacks reported both in African and Caribbean waters last week. A violent kidnapping incident in Gabon as well as US-led interdiction operations highlighted both ongoing threats to shipping lanes as well as effectiveness of international naval responses.
Armed Pirates Subdue Nine Crew in Gabonese Waters.
On January 10, 2026 in Gabonese territorial waters during early morning hours, armed pirates conducted a violent attack that resulted in nine crewmembers being abducted by pirate groups targeting merchant vessels for ransom.
This event fits with larger trends of maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea region, where 2025 saw increased piracy activity. Gabonese authorities have not provided details regarding vessel type or cargo being targeted, although kidnapping tactics employed by organized groups operating from Nigeria suggest tactics employed. International maritime organizations recommend enhanced vigilance and reporting against threats of this nature.
US Forces Seize Dark Fleet Tanker M/T Sophia in Caribbean
On January 7, 2026, in coordination with Homeland Security and Department of War, US forces successfully intercepted M/T Sophia without incident in international waters in the Caribbean Sea while engaged in illegal activities related to dark fleet activities evading sanctions.
As part of Operation Southern Spear, which seeks to curtail illicit maritime operations in the Western Hemisphere, US Coast Guard forces are currently transporting M/T Sophia for final disposition in America for final disposal. This action shows strong commitment to regional security by breaking up shadow fleets engaged in illegal trading practices and disrupting shadow fleets involved in illicit activity.
Separate reports show US forces also arrested two Russian-flagged oil tankers linked to Venezuela, one in the Caribbean, that violated international sanctions through name and flag changes to avoid detection. These coordinated multi-agency operations reflect increased enforcement against sanction-busting vessels.
Resurgent Global Piracy Activity in Context of Global Piracy Resurgence
These events take place against a global tide of surging maritime crime, reaching post-pandemic highs by 2025. From the Gulf of Guinea to the Caribbean, pirates exploited diverted naval assets in response to Red Sea tensions. Although no Somali incidents took place directly within January 7-13 period, recent patterns there involve motherships projecting attacks further offshore.
ReCAAP ISC reported two armed robberies between January 7-13 classified as Category 2 or 3 incidents in Asian waters, which indicated lower-severity risks but continued risks at key chokepoints. 2025 data also demonstrated increased petty thefts between Straits of Malacca and Singapore; arrests led to declines later on.
Industry stakeholders emphasize the need for robust private maritime security, citadel use, and international cooperation. Naval forces like EU NAVFOR maintain patrols; however, experts warn against pirate groups adapting quickly to enforcement gaps; ship operators should maintain an increased readiness in high-risk areas.