This marks the second rescue mission within a span of two days, following the successful prevention of a piracy incident on an Iranian fishing vessel by the ship yesterday.
On January 30, officials reported that the Indian warship INS Sumitra successfully rescued 19 Pakistani crew members from a fishing vessel that had been attacked by pirates off the east coast of Somalia. This marks the second rescue operation in two days, following the ship’s successful prevention of a piracy attempt on an Iranian fishing vessel named Iman on January 29.
According to a tweet from the Navy, the INS Sumitra carried out another effective anti-piracy operation by rescuing the crew of the fishing vessel Al Naeemi, which consisted of 19 Pakistani nationals. The warship compelled the safe release of the crew members and the Iranian-flagged Al Naeemi fishing vessel, which were being held hostage by 11 Somali pirates. The rescue operation took place approximately 850 nautical miles (1,574 kilometers) west of Kochi.
The Indian Navy has successfully rescued hijacked vessels through their swift, persistent, and relentless efforts. These actions have not only prevented the misuse of fishing vessels as mother ships for piracy but also safeguarded merchant vessels. The Navy has released photographs depicting commandos boarding a fishing boat at night and standing guard over a group of Somali pirates who were apprehended and restrained. This operation was carried out by INS Sumitra, which has been deployed for anti-piracy and maritime security operations in the east of Somalia and Gulf of Aden.
In another incident in early January, Indian Navy MARCOS (Marine Commandos) successfully secured and evacuated all 21 crew members, including 15 Indians, from the hijacked merchant vessel Lila Norfolk. These incidents have prompted the Indian Navy to enhance its maritime surveillance efforts in the Central and North Arabian Sea, as well as increase its force levels. Currently, there are approximately 12 warships deployed for anti-piracy and maritime security operations in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden.