Within a dramatic 24-hour span, the Indian Navy orchestrated two successful rescues, safeguarding a total of 36 crew members from Somali pirates aboard separate vessels off the coast of Kochi and near the Gulf of Aden on January 30, 2024.
Al Naemi saved from threat
The Indian warship INS Sumitra responded to a distress call from the Iranian fishing vessel Al Naemi, carrying 19 Pakistani crew members, facing imminent hijacking by pirates. Reaching the scene within an hour, the Navy employed a combination of warning shots, loudspeaker commands, and tactical maneuvers, forcing the pirates to surrender and releasing the vessel unharmed.
INS Sumitra
January 29, 2024 the INS Sumitra encountered a similar scenario near the Gulf of Aden. The Iranian vessel Iman, with 17 crew members onboard, was targeted by Somali pirates. The Navy thwarted the hijacking attempt, ensuring the safety of the crew and the vessel.
INS Visakhapatnam
On January 28, 2024, The Indian Navy warship INS Visakhapatnam rescued a Marshall Island Flagged vessel named MV Genco Picardy and its 21 crew members from a drone attack by Yemen based Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.
These interventions go beyond statistics. Each rescued crew member represents a life saved, families spared from heartbreak. The timely action also secured the vital flow of trade in the region, threatened by ongoing conflict in the Red Sea.
Legacy of Indian Navy
These rescues showcase India’s long-standing commitment to maritime security. For decades, the Navy has served as a dependable force against piracy, safeguarding its own interests and the global flow of trade. The Indian Navy’s role as a maritime guardian becomes even more crucial from 237 attacks in 2011 to only one attack in 2020. The unwavering dedication to international law, vulnerable seafarers, and safe passage stands as a beacon of hope in a sometimes turbulent sea. Besides, there have been four successful cases reported since 2023. These hijacking has raised concerns of piracy threats. Although, these rescues serve as a powerful reminder of India’s maritime legacy and constant support.
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