Indian Navy launches 3rd successful rescue operation against pirates

New Delhi, Jan 30: The Indian Navy has executed its third rescue operation against pirates within a span of just two days.

The Navy's operational readiness in the Arabian Sea has reached new heights, earning global acclaim for its swift response and decisive actions in the face of maritime threats.

Recently, Indian Naval Ship Sumitra successfully thwarted a piracy attempt on Fishing Vessel (FV) Iman, and in a subsequent operation, rescued Fishing Vessel Al Naeemi and her crew of 19 Pakistani nationals from the clutches of 11 Somali Pirates.

INS Sumitra, an indigenous Offshore Patrol Vessel, had been deployed for Anti-Piracy and Maritime Security Operations off the East Coast of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden. The vessel's remarkable performance in two back-to-back operations showcased its efficiency and determination in safeguarding the maritime domain.

In the first incident, INS Sumitra responded to a distress call on January 28, intercepting the Iranian-flagged Fishing Vessel Iman, which had fallen victim to pirates. Employing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and coercive tactics, the warship successfully rescued 17 Iranian nationals held hostage, sanitising the vessel and allowing it to resume its journey.

INS Sumitra then swiftly transitioned into its next mission, locating and intercepting another target. On January 29, the vessel successfully rescued 19 Pakistani nationals held captive by Somali pirates on the Iranian-flagged Fishing Vessel Al Naeemi. Through coercive posturing, and effective deployment of its integral helicopter, and boats, INS Sumitra ensured the safe release of the crew.

In less than 36 hours, INS Sumitra's relentless efforts prevented the misuse of two hijacked Fishing Vessels as potential Mother Ships for further acts of piracy in the Southern Arabian Sea, approximately 850 nautical miles west of Kochi.

The Indian Navy's proactive stance reaffirms its commitment to combating maritime threats, safeguarding mariners, and ensuring the safety of vessels at sea. Once again, the Indian Navy has demonstrated its prowess in maintaining security and stability in the region.

Meanwhile, a Sokesperson of Navy in a post on ‘X’ said, “In a coordinated multilateral response to the hijacking of a #SriLankan fishing vessel, the #IndianNavy in collaboration with @SeyDefence & @srilanka_navy successfully intercepted & rescued the hijacked vessel. Sri Lankan flagged multi-day fishing trawler #LorenzoPutha04, 955 nm east of Mogadishu, Somalia hijacked by three pirates. #IndianNavy deployed #INSSharda from Kochi & also tasked HALE Sea Guardian to locate & intercept the hijacked fishing vessel.”

“Additionally, efficient operational coordination & Info Sharing through the #SriLanka & #Seychelles International Liaison Officers (ILOs) at @IFC_IOR, New Delhi resulted in the interception of the hijacked fishing vessel by SCGS Topaz in Seychelles EEZ on #29Jan 24. The pirates surrendered to the Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG) & all six crew members are safe & vessel escorted to Mahe, Seychelles.”