NEW DELHI: The Indian Navy has rescued all 20 crew members of a fishing vessel from armed pirates after a 48-hour operation in the Arabian Sea. The vessel, Azini, was reportedly seized by the armed pirates more than 3,000 km from Mumbai.Defence minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Navy for executing the meticulously coordinated 48-hour operation with support from the Indian Air Force. “The swift localisation, interception and safe release of the crew and vessel from significantly-armed pirates, with timely support from the IAF, speak well of the Indian Navy’s high operational readiness and ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region,” Rajnath said.A photograph shared by the minister on his post on X shows destroyer INS Kolkata standing by as heavily armed commandos guard what appear to be the pirates, seated on the deck of the fishing vessel. A huge cache of seized weapons was also seen lying on the vessel.“Our brave personnel have once again demonstrated India’s ability, intent and resolve to safeguard lives, uphold maritime security and ensure stability across the Indian Ocean Region. India continues to stand resolute in ensuring SAFE SEAS and a free, open and secure IOR,” he said.
Monday’s operation was launched much further than the Navy’s landmark anti-piracy mission of March 2024. The same destroyer had then intercepted the pirate ship MV Ruen around 2,600km from the Indian coast.The Indian Navy has deployed over 10 warships for anti-piracy and regional security operations like Operation Sankalp to patrol the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the East Coast of Africa.Indian Navy has been proactively engaging with the regional and extra-regional navies and maritime forces, to promote maritime security. Since 2008, Indian Navy has deployed units in the Gulf of Aden and East Coast of Africa towards anti-piracy patrols.