Indian Navy Rescues Hijacked Iranian Fishing Vessel with 23 Pakistani Crew

Defense News ,India :-  On Friday ,The Indian Navy successfully rescued a hijacked Iranian fishing vessel along with its crew of 23 Pakistani nationals. The rescue mission, which lasted more than 12 hours, involved intense tactical measures aimed at coercing the armed pirates into surrendering.

The operation began when the Indian Navy received reports of a hijacked fishing vessel, the FV 'Al Kambar', which had fallen prey to nine armed pirates. Responding swiftly, the INS Sumedha intercepted the vessel during the early hours of the operation, later joined by the guided missile frigate INS Trishul.

Employing standard operating procedures (SOPs), the Indian Navy executed coercive tactics to compel the pirates to surrender. After a prolonged standoff, the pirates yielded, allowing the safe rescue of the crew members, all of whom were Pakistani nationals.

The incident took place approximately 90 nautical miles southwest of Socotra, near the Socotra Archipelago in the northwest Indian Ocean, close to the Gulf of Aden. Despite the risks involved, the Indian Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring maritime security in the region and the safety of all seafarers, regardless of nationality.

This rescue operation is part of a broader effort by the Indian Navy to safeguard the Indian Ocean Region. Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of the Indian Navy, emphasized the importance of proactive measures to enhance security in the region during a recent statement on March 23. He highlighted the ongoing 'Op Sankalp', which includes various maritime security operations such as anti-piracy, anti-missile, and anti-drone activities.

During the preceding 100 days of 'Op Sankalp', the Indian Navy has saved a total of 110 lives, comprising 45 Indians and 65 foreign nationals. These operations have proven critical in mitigating threats posed by maritime incidents, including drone or missile attacks, as well as piracy, hijacking, and suspicious approaches.

Since November of the previous year until March, over 90 maritime incidents have been reported. These include 57 drone or missile-related incidents and 39 cases of piracy, hijacking, or suspicious activities. Such statistics underscore the significance of ongoing efforts to maintain maritime security and combat illicit activities in the region.

The successful rescue of the hijacked Iranian fishing vessel by the Indian Navy exemplifies courage, determination, and a steadfast commitment to maritime security. Through proactive measures and decisive action, the Indian Navy continues to safeguard the waters of the Indian Ocean, ensuring the safety and well-being of all those who traverse its vast expanse.