GLOBAL PIRACY SUMMARY FOR MAY, 2012

Total Number of Attacks in May: 25
Total Number of Attacks this year: 169
Ships Released in May: 0
Crew Released in May: 0
New Ships Taken in May: 1
New Crew Taken in May: 26
Ships Held at end of May: 17*
Crew Held at end of May: 269*

*excludes various local dhows and fishing vessels, and their crews

Summary
Global pirate activity dropped to 25 attacks over the course of May. Piracy decreased off the coast of Somalia, with fewer attempted attacks, and one successful hijack of a Liberia-flagged tanker. Attacks increased in the northern Gulf of Oman, where swarm tactics were reported for the first time. Attacks dropped in West African waters, but two serious attacks were recorded within 24 hours off Nigeria. Attacks fell in southeast Asia, although three of these were directed at vessels underway rather than at anchor as is more common in the region. Two attacks were officially recorded in Latin America.
At least 269 crewmembers are currently being held, with many facing detention periods of over 300 days, at a current average of 160 days. No vessels were released for ransom from Somalia in May. Average ransom amounts are approximately US$5 million at present.
In West Africa, vessels remain vulnerable up to 120NM off Nigeria, Benin and Togo. Stationary vessels in anchorages off major ports remain vulnerable to all forms of attack.

Source: AKE