New Delhi: The Indian Navy has rescued all 20 crew members of an Iranian fishing vessel that was hijacked by Somali pirates. The rescue operation lasted 48 hours and took place in the Arabian Sea, around 3,000 km from Mumbai.
The vessel, named Azini, was taken over by Somali pirates on October 29. The Navy launched a special operation to rescue the crew and bring the situation under control.
How Did the Indian Navy Carry Out the Rescue?
The Indian Navy sent a warship to the area and used a special aircraft to find and track the hijacked vessel.
Navy teams kept a close watch on the ship and used special methods to stop it from escaping.
The operation also involved marine commandos who were dropped into the area with the help of an Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft.
The joint efforts of the Navy and Air Force helped rescue all 20 crew members safely.
Why Was the Hijacked Ship a Security Threat?
According to the Indian Navy, the hijacked vessel could have been used as a support ship by pirates.
Such ships are sometimes called ‘mother ships’. Pirates can use them to travel farther into the sea and launch attacks on other commercial ships carrying goods.
The Navy said that the hijacking could have created a serious danger for ships travelling through the region.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Praises the Navy
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Indian Navy for completing the rescue operation.
He praised the Navy and Air Force for working together and safely rescuing the crew.
Singh said that the operation showed India’s ability to protect people and deal with security threats in the sea.
He also said that India remains committed to keeping the Indian Ocean safe and peaceful.
India Continues Anti-Piracy Patrols
The Indian Navy has been carrying out regular anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden since October 23, 2008.
At least one Indian warship remains on round-the-clock patrol in the region to protect ships carrying Indian goods, support sailors and prevent pirate attacks.
The latest rescue operation once again highlights India’s role in protecting sea routes and helping people in danger across the Indian Ocean.
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