The Regional Maritime Information Fusion Center has released its Quarterly Maritime Security Report for Q1 2024, presenting a mixed outlook for the Western Indian Ocean.

Piracy incidents and armed robbery at sea declined by 15 percent compared to the previous year, attributed to increased naval patrols and effective implementation of Best Management Practices.

Concerns over IUU Fishing

The report highlights a 20 percent rise in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in southern exclusive economic zones, largely driven by foreign deep-water fleets. It calls for tighter port state measures and increased aerial surveillance.

Member states are encouraged to review the full data set available through secure channels.