India
Indian Navy Recovers 20 Crew from Pirated Fishing Vessel 3,000km Off Mumbai
The Indian Navy rescued all 20 crew members of the fishing vessel Azini after a 48‑hour operation in the Arabian Sea. The vessel had been seized by armed pirates more than 3,000 km from Mumbai. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Navy for the coordinated operation, noting the swift localisation, interception and safe release of the crew and vessel with timely support from the Indian Air Force. A photograph posted by the minister on X shows destroyer INS Kolkata standing by as heavily armed commandos guard what appear to be the pirates seated on the deck of the fishing vessel, with a large cache of seized weapons lying on the vessel. Singh said, “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. India continues to stand resolute in ensuring SAFE SEAS and a free, open and secure IOR.” The operation was launched further from the coast than the Navy’s March 2024 anti‑piracy mission, when the same destroyer intercepted the pirate ship MV Ruen about 2,600 km from the Indian coast. The Indian Navy has deployed more than 10 warships for anti‑piracy and regional security operations such as Operation Sankalp, patrolling the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and the East Coast of Africa. Since 2008, the Navy has maintained units in the Gulf of Aden and East Coast of Africa for anti‑piracy patrols and has been engaging with regional and extra‑regional navies and maritime forces to promote maritime security.