The Indian Navy successfully rescued all 20 crew members of the fishing vessel Azini after it was hijacked by armed pirates off the northeastern coast of Somalia last month. The operation, which lasted over 48 hours, concluded without any casualties or injuries.
The hijacking posed a significant maritime security threat, as the vessel risked being used as a ‘mother ship’ for launching further pirate attacks against merchant shipping in the region. In response, the Indian Navy deployed a warship supported by a maritime reconnaissance aircraft to locate and track the vessel. Persistent surveillance allowed the Navy to contain the vessel’s movement and prevent its escape using calibrated non-kinetic measures.
Marine Commandos were deployed by a precision airdrop from an Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft. The Indian Navy then carried out a swift and coordinated tactical intervention to secure the vessel, neutralise the pirate threat, and ensure the safe release of all crew members.
In a statement, the Indian Navy said, “The successful operation is a testament to the Indian Navy’s high operational preparedness and ability to undertake complex maritime security operations through seamless inter-service coordination. It also underscores India’s unwavering commitment to remaining First Responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region.”
The Navy reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding seafarers, protecting vital maritime trade routes, and maintaining a secure and stable maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region.
Source:thenewsmill
