Indian naval forces successfully freed a hijacked Iranian fishing crew off the coast of Somalia after a 48-hour operation. The rescue, announced by India’s Defence Ministry, took place in the Arabian Sea, approximately 3,000 kilometers from Mumbai. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the operation concluded on Monday.
The Iranian vessel, named Azini, was hijacked by suspected Somali pirates. Indian forces disarmed 12 pirates during the operation, confiscated their mobile phones, and released them. An official from the Puntland Maritime Police Force confirmed the details. The rescued crew, consisting of 20 fishermen, was safely returned to Iranian authorities.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maritime security in the region. Somali pirates have long targeted commercial and fishing vessels in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. The Indian navy has been actively involved in anti-piracy operations in the area, often collaborating with regional and international forces. The successful rescue underscores India’s commitment to maritime security and its role in protecting international waters. The operation also reflects the broader efforts of global naval coalitions to combat piracy and ensure safe passage for commercial and fishing vessels.
