Indian naval commandos have successfully rescued all 20 crew members aboard a hijacked Iranian fishing vessel off the coast of Somalia after armed pirates seized the ship, highlighting India’s growing maritime security operations in the region.
The dramatic rescue took place after the Indian Navy tracked the hijacked vessel, named Azini, which was captured on October 29 near the Somali coastline.
According to the Indian Navy, the operation involved a warship and a maritime reconnaissance aircraft that closely monitored the vessel before specialised marine commandos were deployed by parachute to take control of the situation.
The vessel was hijacked between the coastal towns of Bandar Beyla and Xaafun in Puntland, a semi-autonomous region of Somalia. Authorities were concerned that the fishing boat could be used as a so-called mother ship, allowing pirates to launch further attacks against commercial vessels travelling through important international shipping routes.
After reaching the vessel, the Indian commandos secured the ship, overcame the pirate threat and successfully freed all 20 crew members. The Indian Navy confirmed that everyone aboard was released safely.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over renewed piracy activity along the Somali coast. At least 15 attacks have been reported since April, marking the highest level of activity since 2013.
The vessel Azini was also the third Iranian fishing boat reported hijacked off Somalia since July, raising further concerns about the safety of fishing vessels and commercial shipping in the region.
The rescue demonstrates the importance of coordinated maritime surveillance, rapid military response and international efforts to protect people working at sea. For the 20 crew members, the operation meant something far more personal: the chance to return home safely after facing a frightening and uncertain ordeal.
As piracy concerns continue to grow, protecting international waters remains a major challenge for naval forces and maritime authorities worldwide.
Source: AFP
