Indian Navy Successfully Rescues Hijacked Fishing Vessel 'Azini' Off Somalia Coast
The Indian Navy conducted a swift and well-coordinated operation spanning over 48 hours to liberate the fishing vessel Azini from armed pirates off the north-eastern coast of Somalia. The operation culminated in the safe rescue of all 20 crew members with no casualties or injuries reported.
The hijacking was reported earlier last month and represented a significant maritime security threat, with the possibility of the vessel being employed as a 'mother ship' for launching further pirate attacks against merchant shipping in the region. In response, the Indian Navy tasked a mission-deployed warship to intervene, supported by a maritime reconnaissance aircraft. These platforms worked in close coordination to locate the vessel after persistent surveillance, track its movements, and employ calibrated non-kinetic measures to contain its movement and prevent its escape.
Marine Commandos were augmented through a precision airdrop by an Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft. The Indian Navy executed a swift and well-coordinated tactical intervention that secured the vessel, overcame the pirate threat, and ensured the safe release of all crew members. The successful operation demonstrates the Indian Navy's high operational preparedness and ability to undertake complex maritime security operations through seamless inter-service coordination.
This operation underscores India's commitment to remaining First Responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region. The Indian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding seafarers, protecting vital maritime trade routes, and ensuring a safe, secure, and stable maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region.