NEW DELHI: In a swift and daring operation, the Indian Navy’s warship INS Sumitra successfully thwarted two piracy attempts within a span of 36 hours, rescuing a total of 36 crew members from hijacked fishing vessels in the Southern Arabian Sea. The commendable efforts of INS Sumitra have showcased the Navy’s commitment to combating maritime threats and ensuring the safety of mariners and vessels at sea.
The first operation unfolded on January 28, when INS Sumitra responded to a distress call about the hijacking of an Iranian-flagged fishing vessel, FV Iman. Pirates had boarded the vessel, taking the crew hostage. Employing standard operating procedures and coercive posturing, INS Sumitra intercepted the FV Iman, successfully rescuing all 17 Iranian nationals on board in the early hours of January 29.
Undeterred by the first successful operation, INS Sumitra was again called into action to counter another piracy attempt. On January 29, the warship intercepted the fishing vessel Al Naeemi, which had fallen prey to pirates, holding 19 Pakistani nationals as hostages. Through effective deployment of integral helicopters and boats, INS Sumitra compelled the safe release of the crew and the vessel.
The relentless efforts of INS Sumitra over less than 36 hours have not only prevented the misuse of these fishing vessels as mother ships for further acts of piracy but also demonstrated the Navy’s dedication to anti-piracy and maritime security operations off the East Coast of Somalia.
INS Sumitra, an indigenous Offshore Patrol Vessel, has once again underscored its capabilities in dealing with complex maritime challenges. The Indian Navy’s successful operations reflect its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the seas and ensuring the well-being of mariners in the region.