Indian Navy Warship INS Kolkata Foils Pirate Hijacking Attempt

Indian Navy Warship INS Kolkata Foils Pirate Hijacking Attempt

VoM News Desk | March 17, 2024 | 10:56 PM IST | India, Security, World | Follow on Google News

Indian Navy Warship INS Kolkata Foils Pirate Hijacking Attempt

Indian Navy Warship INS Kolkata Foils Pirate Hijacking Attempt

Following a 40-hour-long operation in the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy warship INS Kolkata is poised to bring 35 apprehended pirates to India, along with 17 rescued crew members from the merchant vessel MV Ruen.

Successful Operation

During the operation, INS Kolkata intercepted the pirate ship MV Ruen, which had been hijacked in December 2023 by Somali pirates. The Indian Navy, deploying a sustained high tempo of operations, thwarted the pirates’ attempts to hijack ships transiting through the region. The operation culminated in the surrender of all 35 Somali pirates on March 16.

Swift Action and Negotiations

INS Kolkata, after confirming the presence of armed pirates through a ship-launched drone, engaged in calibrated responses in accordance with International Laws. Despite hostile actions from the pirates, including shooting down the drone and firing at the Indian Naval warship, Kolkata disabled the pirate ship’s steering system and navigational aids, compelling it to stop. Precisely measured actions and forceful negotiations by INS Kolkata led to the surrender of the pirates and the release of MV Ruen and its original crew.

Augmented Efforts and Surveillance

The Indian Navy’s ongoing anti-piracy operation was reinforced by the deployment of INS Subhadra and the air-dropping of Marine Commandos (PRAHARS) by C-17 aircraft. Surveillance was maintained over the pirate vessel by HALE RPA and P8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

All 17 original crew members of MV Ruen were safely evacuated without injury, and the vessel was sanitized for the presence of illegal arms, ammunition, and contraband.

Bringing the Vessel to India

The seaworthiness of MV Ruen was assessed, and the vessel, carrying approximately 37,800 tonnes of cargo valued at around one million dollars, will be safely brought to India.

The successful operation showcases the Indian Navy’s commitment to maritime security and anti-piracy efforts in the region.

VoM News Desk

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