Indian Navy Rescues 20 Crew from Hijacked Iranian Vessel

The Indian Navy rescued all 20 crew members of an Iranian fishing vessel, Azini, after Somali pirates hijacked the boat on October 29. The operation lasted 48 hours and was conducted around 3,000 km from Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, officials said.

The rescue operation involved the Indian Navy and received timely support from the Indian Air Force. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the personnel involved, praising their coordination and response to the Maritime Security threat.

Iranian Fishing Vessel Azini Seized by Somali Pirates

The Iranian fishing vessel Azini was seized by Somali pirates on October 29. According to an Associated Press report, the hijacking took place between the coastal towns of Bandar Bayla and Hafun in northeastern Somalia.

Following the incident, the Indian Navy coordinated a 48-hour operation to locate and intercept the vessel and secure the release of its crew. All 20 crew members were rescued, and the vessel was recovered.

The operation took place in the Arabian Sea, approximately 3,000 km from Mumbai, highlighting the reach of India’s maritime security response across the region.

Rajnath Singh Praises Indian Navy’s Rescue Operation

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Indian Navy for carrying out what he described as a “meticulously coordinated operation”. In a post on X, he highlighted the role of the Navy and the Indian Air Force in securing the crew and vessel.

“The swift localisation, interception and safe release of the crew and vessel from significantly-armed pirates, with timely support from the Indian Air Force, speak well of the Indian Navy’s high operational readiness and ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region,” Singh wrote on X.

Singh also praised the personnel for their contribution to maritime security and the protection of lives in the Indian Ocean Region.

“Our brave personnel have once again demonstrated India’s ability, intent and resolve to safeguard lives, uphold maritime security and ensure stability across the Indian Ocean Region,” Singh said.

Indian Navy’s Long-Running Anti-Piracy Patrols

The Indian Navy has maintained a continuous anti-piracy presence in the Gulf of Aden since October 23, 2008. At any given time, at least one Indian warship has been deployed on round-the-clock patrols in the region.

These patrols are intended to protect Indian sea-borne trade, strengthen confidence among the seafaring community and deter piracy. The rescue of the Azini crew adds to the Navy’s efforts to address maritime threats and support the safety of vessels operating across the Indian Ocean Region.