Somali piracy surge: 13 vessels attacked in 2025 as ransom-holding operations expand

Piracy off the Somali coast has escalated with 13 attacks recorded in 2025, including the recent seizures of the MV Lutuf and MT Sibu 1. The trend marks a significant resurgence in maritime insecurity, with six vessels currently held for multi-million dollar ransoms near Bander Beyla, indicating a return to organized, long-term hostage-taking operations.