The Indian Navy has rescued a hijacked fishing vessel, Azini, and all 20 crew members following an operation lasting more than 48 hours off the coast of Somalia.
The Indian Navy successfully freed the fishing vessel Azini from armed pirates in a coordinated operation that concluded with the safe rescue of all 20 crew members. No casualties or injuries were reported during the operation.
The vessel had reportedly been hijacked by an armed pirate group earlier in October off the north-eastern coast of Somalia. The incident raised concerns over maritime security, as the pirates could potentially use the fishing vessel as a mother ship to launch further attacks against merchant shipping in the region.
Indian Navy Deploys Warship and Reconnaissance Aircraft
Following the hijacking, the Indian Navy deployed a mission-assigned warship to intervene, supported by a maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
The two platforms worked together to locate the vessel through persistent surveillance and track its movements. They also employed calibrated non-kinetic measures to restrict the vessel’s movement and prevent it from escaping.
Marine Commandos were subsequently augmented through a precision airdrop conducted by an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 aircraft.
Marine Commandos Secure Vessel and Rescue Crew
The Indian Navy carried out a coordinated tactical intervention to secure Azini and overcome the pirate threat. The operation resulted in the successful release of all 20 crew members, with no casualties or injuries.
The operation lasted more than 48 hours and involved coordination between the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. The successful rescue demonstrated the forces’ ability to conduct complex maritime security operations through coordinated action.
India Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Security
The Indian Navy stated that the operation reflects its operational preparedness and ability to respond to maritime security threats through inter-service coordination.
It also highlighted India’s commitment to serving as a First Responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region.
The Navy reiterated its commitment to safeguarding seafarers, protecting vital maritime trade routes and maintaining a safe, secure and stable maritime environment across the Indian Ocean Region.
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