A pipe gripping assembly for handling a pipe includes at least two gripping members, wherein each gripping member comprises a pipe engaging portion engageable with the outer circumference of a pipe, wherein at least one gripping member is rotatable about a pivot axis, and wherein the pipe gripping assembly further comprises actuation means to rotate the at least one rotatable gripping member such that the pipe gripping assembly is movable between an open position for receiving a pipe and a closed position in which the pipe engaging portions engage with a pipe, wherein each rotatable gripping member further comprises a locking body engaging portion and the pipe gripping assembly further comprises a movable locking body and associated displacement means to move the locking body such that the pipe gripping assembly is lockable in the closed position by moving the locking body to a locking position.