The Indian Navy’s rescue operation in the Arabian Sea has once again showcased its commitment to maritime security. On January 29, the INS Sumitra successfully rescued fishermen who had fallen victim to Somali pirates. The navy’s prompt response and adherence to established procedures resulted in the safe release of the crew aboard the hijacked Iranian fishing vessel FV Iman. 

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The daring rescue mission conducted by INS Sumitra was shared with the public through a video released on January 31. The footage captured the moment when the Pakistani Iranian crew, visibly relieved, expressed their gratitude. In their testimonies, the crew members revealed that upon sighting the Indian Navy, the pirates swiftly abandoned their weapons. The crew went on to raise chants of ‘Indian Navy zindabad,’ expressing their deep appreciation for the timely intervention that saved their lives.

Source: Times of India

The incident took place in the Arabian Sea, an expansive region that has witnessed a surge in pirate activities. The FV Iman, carrying around 17 crew members, was boarded and hijacked by Somali pirates. INS Sumitra, operating 700 nautical miles west of Kochi, intercepted the vessel promptly. The Indian Navy executed well-established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the safe release of the crew. The pirates were effectively coerced, leading to the surrender of their weapons and the subsequent sanitization of the fishing vessel. Following the operation, FV Iman was released for its onward transit, marking a successful mission for the Indian Navy.

Source: Republic World

This commendable feat by the Indian Navy comes at a critical juncture when maritime security is under threat in various regions. The Arabian Sea, in particular, has seen a rise in pirate attacks, further exacerbated by the actions of Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The timely and effective response of INS Sumitra not only protected the lives of the hijacked crew members but also underscored the importance of a robust naval presence in safeguarding crucial business routes.

Source: ANIFeed

The rescue operation adds to the list of recent attacks on cargo vessels, drawing attention to the challenges faced by maritime forces globally. The Red Sea, in particular, has become a hotspot for Houthi rebel-led assaults on cargo vessels, posing a significant threat to international trade and shipping.