Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-01-30 16:02:59
India’s navy has successfully executed a daring rescue mission, saving 19 Pakistani nationals from the clutches of Somali pirates who had seized their fishing vessel near Somalia. The crew of the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi had been taken hostage by eleven Somali pirates before the Indian Navy’s patrol ship, INS Sumitra, intervened and ensured the safe release of both the crew and the vessel.
This successful rescue operation marks the second time within 36 hours that INS Sumitra has thwarted piracy attempts in the region. Just recently, the navy patrol ship had rescued 17 individuals from another hijacked Iranian-flagged fishing vessel in the Gulf of Aden. These rescue missions highlight India’s commitment to combating the threat of piracy in the volatile waters near Somalia.
The rescue comes at a time of heightened concern over increased attacks on vessels off the coast of Somalia. The spike in attacks comes amid recent missile strikes by Houthi fighters in the Red Sea, further complicating the security situation in the region. The Indian Navy’s swift and decisive action to rescue the hijacked vessels and their crews underscores the ongoing challenges posed by piracy and maritime security.
The successful operations conducted by INS Sumitra demonstrate the navy’s readiness and capability to respond to maritime threats, protecting not only Indian vessels but also those of other nations navigating these perilous waters. The navy’s proactive efforts to ensure the safety and security of vessels and their crews serve as a testament to India’s commitment to upholding maritime security and stability in the region.
The rescue of the Pakistani crew from the hijacked fishing vessel serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat of piracy in the waters off the coast of Somalia. It also highlights the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in addressing maritime security challenges and ensuring the safety of seafarers in the region.
