The Indian Navy has once again demonstrated its commitment to maritime security by rescuing 19 Pakistani crew members from an Iranian-flagged fishing vessel that Somali pirates hijacked. This is the second operation in 24 hours, following the rescue of another fishing vessel with 17 crew members on board.
The Rescue Operation: Indian Navy
The Indian Navy’s warship INS Sumitra was deploy for anti-piracy and maritime security operations east of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden when it received a distress call regarding the hijacking of the Iranian-flag fishing vessel Al Naeemi. Pirates board the vessel, and its 19 crew members were taken hostage.
The INS Sumitra responded to the call and intercepted the vessel on Monday, January 30, 2024. The warship compelled the safe release of the crew and the ship through coercive posturing and effective deployment of her integral helo and boats. The vessels also undertook confirmatory boarding to sanitize and check on the well-being of the crew who were held captive by the Somali pirates.
This operation came within 36 hours after INS Sumitra rescued another fishing vessel, FV Iman, with 17 crew members on board. In total, INS Sumitra rescued two hijacked fishing vessels along with 36 crew, 17 Iranian and 19 Pakistani, in the southern Arabian Sea approximately 850 nm West of Kochi.
The Significance of the Operation
The accomplishment of the Indian Navy’s rescue mission demonstrates their dedication to maintaining maritime safety and security. The Arabian Sea is a vital shipping lane, and piracy in the region has been a primary concern for the international community. The Indian Navy has been at the forefront of anti-piracy operations in the area, and its efforts have been instrumental in curbing piracy.
The rescue of the Pakistani crew members is also significant as it highlights India’s humanitarian approach to maritime security. Despite the persistent animosity between Pakistan and India, the Indian Navy has proven time and again that it is dedicate to rescuing sailors.
Indian Navy anti-piracy operations
The Indian Navy has been deploying one ship in the Gulf of Aden on anti-piracy tasking since October 2008. The IN ships escort merchant ships through the 490 nautical mile-long, mile-long Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC); thus far, 50 IN warships have been deploy. The anti-piracy activities of the Indian Navy are design to reduce piracy in the area and make the oceans a safer place for everyone. The Indian Navy’s anti-piracy operations are closely coordinate with other navies and international organizations. The Indian Navy has been at the forefront of anti-piracy operations in the region, and its efforts have been instrumental in curbing piracy.
Various tactics, like as patrolling, escorting trade ships, and monitoring, are employ by the Indian Navy in its fight against piracy. In order to better prepare for potential threats in the area, the Indian Navy also regularly exercises.
Thanks to the Indian Navy’s anti-piracy operations, the Arabian Sea’s important shipping corridors are now secure. The recent rescue operation by the Indian Navy is a testament to its commitment to providing the safety and security of the seas.
FAQ’s
1. What was the incident involving the hijacked vessel that the Indian Navy rescued?
The Indian Navy successfully rescued a hijacked vessel where 19 Pakistanis were held captive. The operation showcased the Navy’s swift response to maritime threats.
2. How did the Indian Navy become aware of the hijacked vessel?
The Indian Navy received intelligence reports indicating the presence of a hijacked vessel in a certain maritime region. This prompted them to launch a rescue mission to secure the safety of those on board.
3. How did the Indian Navy find the vessel?
The Indian warship INS Sumitra patrolled the area and responded to a distress call.
4. Were there any other rescues involved?
Yes, this was the second rescue by INS Sumitra in a day. Earlier, they saved another vessel with 17 Iranian crew members.
The accomplishment of the Indian Navy’s rescue mission demonstrates their dedication to maintaining maritime safety and security. The rescue of the Pakistani crew members shows that the Indian Navy’s humanitarian approach to maritime security persists despite tensions with Pakistan. The Indian Navy’s anti-piracy actions have protected Arabian Sea commercial channels. The successful rescue mission shows that the Indian Navy is well-equipped to handle regional problems.
