A reported published by the ReCAAP (Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia) indicates that piracy incidents across Asia have doubled in the first half of 2020, with 50 incidents reported in the region compared to 25 in the same period of 2019. The ReCAAP states that piracy rate is at its highest point in 5 years. The Singapore Strait, one of the busiest commercial shipping routes on earth, has seen 16 piracy incidence in the first 6 months of the year.

Some authorities believe that the increase of piracy is partially attributed to economic downturns caused by the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic. One analyst suggests that some fishermen in the region may partake in "opportunistic piracy" against smaller and more vulnerable vessels to supplement their income. Though the kidnapping of crew members during incidents is relatively rare, commonly stolen items include cargo, personal belongings, scrap metal, engine parts, and communication systems.

Masafumi Kuroki, the ReCAAP's executive director, stated that the increase of incidents is "worrying". He added that if "small crimes" are not addressed, it could embolden "criminals to commit more serious acts" at a higher frequency.

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