In another display of its commitment to maritime security, the Indian Navy successfully foiled a piracy attempt near the East of Somalia, rescuing Iranian and Pakistani nationals who were held hostage by pirates on the fishing vessel FV Omari.
The Navy’s vigilance and swift response to information about a piracy attempt on the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel FV Omari on January 31 proved crucial in preventing a potential hijacking. The Indian Navy’s drone, engaged in surveillance in the area, detected the piracy attempt, leading to the deployment of INS Sharda, a naval vessel assigned to anti-piracy missions in the region.
According to the official statement from the Indian Navy, “INS Sharda intercepted the vessel in the early hours of Friday and used her integral helicopter and boats to coerce the pirates for the safe release of the crew along with the vessel.” The successful operation ensured the release of 11 Iranian and eight Pakistani nationals who were part of the vessel’s crew.
The relentless efforts of Indian Naval platforms, dedicated to anti-piracy and maritime security operations, continue to play a pivotal role in safeguarding precious lives at sea. The successful rescue of the crew members from FV Omari further underscores the Indian Navy’s unwavering resolve to ensure the safety of vessels and seafarers navigating these challenging waters.
This recent incident follows closely on the heels of two major rescue operations conducted by the Indian Navy within a span of 36 hours. In those operations, the Navy successfully rescued crew members, including 17 Iranian and 19 Pakistani nationals, from hijacked fishing vessels.
The Indian Navy’s proactive approach to countering piracy in critical maritime regions reflects its commitment to maintaining the security of shipping lanes and preventing unlawful activities at sea. The continuous efforts of the Navy serve as a symbol of its dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of all vessels and seafarers navigating through these waters.
As piracy threats persist in certain regions, the Indian Navy remains at the forefront, employing advanced surveillance technologies, naval assets, and strategic interventions to safeguard the maritime domain. These efforts contribute significantly to upholding international maritime laws and promoting a secure environment for global maritime trade.