In a remarkable display of maritime prowess, the Indian Navy successfully liberated an Iranian fishing vessel seized by pirates, securing the safety of its 23-member Pakistani crew through a meticulously executed anti-piracy operation that endured over 12 hours at sea, as disclosed by officials.
Employing rigorous tactical maneuvers, the Navy managed to compel the armed pirates to relinquish control of the hijacked vessel, named FV 'Al Kambar'. This daring rescue operation, which unfolded on Friday, saw the deployment of specialist teams to thoroughly inspect and ensure the seaworthiness of the fishing vessel post-liberation, enabling its escorted return to a designated safe zone for the resumption of routine fishing activities, as per an official statement relayed by a Navy spokesperson.
The interception of the hijacked vessel occurred on Thursday, with INS Sumedha initiating the mission and subsequently receiving reinforcement from the guided missile frigate INS Trishul during the early hours of Friday.
Located approximately 90 nautical miles southwest of Socotra when boarded by pirates, the fishing vessel's plight underscores the persistent threat of piracy in maritime regions. Undeterred, the Indian Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding maritime security and ensuring the well-being of seafarers, transcending national boundaries.
Highlighting the significance of maritime security initiatives, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Navy, underscored the proactive stance taken by the Navy during a press briefing on March 23. Operation Sankalp, emblematic of the Navy's resolve, has witnessed a slew of anti-piracy, anti-missile, and anti-drone operations, culminating in the rescue of 110 lives, comprising both Indian and foreign nationals, over a 100-day period.
A comprehensive presentation before the press conference illuminated the gravity of maritime incidents, including 57 instances of drone or missile activity and 39 piracy-related events, underscoring the imperative for continued vigilance and collaborative efforts to uphold maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
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