Indian Navy frees 20 crew from hijacked fishing boat near Somalia

What Happened

Indian Navy freed 20 crew from the hijacked fishing vessel Azini off the northeastern coast of Somalia after a 48‑hour operation. The boat had been seized by an armed pirate group earlier last month, suspected of using it as a mother‑ship for attacks on merchant ships. A Navy warship and a maritime reconnaissance aircraft tracked the vessel and used calibrated non‑kinetic measures to keep it in place and prevent it from escaping. Marine Commandos were air‑dropped by an Indian Air Force C‑17 and carried out a swift tactical intervention, neutralising the pirates and securing the ship. The operation recorded no casualties or injuries among the crew.

Reaction

The Navy said the mission showed its readiness and its ability to run complex maritime security tasks with seamless Air Force support. Officials highlighted India’s role as a ‘First Responder’ and a ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indian Ocean Region, stressing the importance of protecting seafarers and vital trade routes. The success underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding vital international maritime trade routes.

Context

Piracy off Somalia has risen again, and vessels are often hijacked to support further attacks on commercial traffic. India’s naval presence in the region aims to deter such threats and ensure safe passage for international shipping. Such joint naval‑air missions have become a key part of India’s strategy to counter piracy in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters.