Mon. Nov 4th, 2024

India’s Navy Seizes Control of Bulk Carrier Hijacked by Somali Pirates, Safely Evacuates Crew

Late Saturday, the Indian navy announced the successful takeover of a bulk carrier that had been hijacked by Somali pirates, ensuring the safe evacuation of all 17 crew members aboard the vessel.

In a statement released on Saturday, the navy reported that all 35 pirates aboard the Maltese-flagged MV Ruen had surrendered, allowing for a thorough inspection of the vessel for illegal arms, ammunition, and contraband. The operation, which spanned approximately 40 hours, utilized drones, navy vessels, and marine commandos.

The incident unfolded when individuals aboard the bulk carrier opened fire on an Indian warship in international waters on Friday, prompting the navy to intercept the vessel approximately 2,600 kilometers (1,615 miles) off the Indian coast.

The MV Ruen had been seized by pirates on December 14 near the Yemeni island of Socotra, approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) off the coast of Somalia.

Although activity from Somali pirates has decreased in recent years, concerns have mounted over a potential resurgence due to political instability and widespread chaos in the region, including attacks on ships by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.

Earlier this week, a Bangladesh-flagged cargo ship with 23 crew members fell victim to piracy off the coast of Somalia, with the EU’s maritime security force confirming the hijacking on Wednesday.

India has been actively asserting its naval capabilities in international waters, particularly through anti-piracy patrols and a highly publicized deployment near the Red Sea to safeguard ships during Israel’s conflict with Hamas.

Indian naval forces, including three guided missile destroyers and reconnaissance aircraft, have intervened in at least four incidents involving merchant vessels attacked by Houthi forces in high seas.

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