Liberian Ship Hijack: INS Chennai Rescues Hijacked Vessel Off Somalia Coast, All 15 Indian Crew Members Safe

Defense News ,India :- In a daring operation, the Indian naval warship INS Chennai successfully reached the troubled waters surrounding the hijacked vessel MV Lila Norfolk off the Somalia coast, as reported by news agency ANI citing military officials.

Upon arrival, INS Chennai wasted no time, deploying its helicopter and sternly warning the pirates to abandon their illicit takeover of the vessel. The safety of at least 15 Indian crew members aboard the Liberian-flagged ship, hijacked near Somalia coast, has been ensured, with the elite Marine Commandos MARCOS standing ready for any necessary operations.

The Indian Navy has been vigilantly monitoring the situation concerning the hijacked ship, MV LILA NORFOLK, since receiving information the previous evening. Communication has been established with the 15 Indian crew members, and the Navy is actively engaged in overseeing the ongoing developments.

The alert came through the UKMTO portal, signaling a distressing boarding incident by approximately five or six armed individuals on Thursday evening. Responding promptly, the Indian Navy launched a Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) and redirected INS Chennai to assist the beleaguered vessel, as reported by ANI.

On Friday morning, INS Chennai soared over the vessel and successfully established contact, ensuring the safety of the crew. The overall situation is being meticulously monitored in collaboration with various agencies and Maritime Security Forces (MNFs) in the region, according to Indian Navy officials.

This marks a testament to the swift and decisive action taken by the Indian Navy in protecting its citizens and upholding maritime security. The saga continues, with more updates expected to follow.