The Indian Navy has once again demonstrated its prowess in combating piracy threats along the East coast of Somalia. The timely intervention by Indian Naval assets foiled an attempted hijacking of the Fishing Vessel FV Omari, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding maritime security and ensuring the safety of seafarers.
The incident, which unfolded on January 31st, 2024, came to the attention of Indian Naval authorities through vigilant monitoring of piracy activities in the region. Upon receiving intelligence about the hijacking of FV Omari by seven armed pirates, Indian Naval Remote Piloted Aircraft (RPA) swiftly located the vessel. Responding to the imminent threat, INS Sharada, deployed for anti-piracy operations, was immediately redirected to intercept the hijacked vessel.
Under the cover of darkness, INS Sharada closed in on FV Omari in the early hours of February 2nd, 2024. Utilizing its integral helicopter and boats, the naval vessel launched a coordinated operation to confront the pirates and secure the safe release of the crew members held hostage onboard. The successful intervention by INS Sharada ensured the liberation of all hostages, comprising 11 Iranian and 8 Pakistani nationals, along with the fishing vessel.
In a testament to the Indian Navy’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian principles, INS Sharada also conducted a thorough boarding of FV Omari to assess the well-being of the rescued crew and sanitize the vessel. The comprehensive approach adopted by the Indian Navy underscores its dedication to upholding maritime safety and protecting the lives of those at sea.
The successful resolution of the piracy incident highlights the relentless efforts of Indian Naval platforms engaged in anti-piracy and maritime security operations. By swiftly responding to threats and neutralizing piracy attempts, the Indian Navy continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding vital sea lanes and preserving peace and stability in the maritime domain.
The latest operation serves as an essential reminder of the inherent dangers faced by seafarers navigating piracy-prone waters, particularly along the East coast of Somalia. It also highlights the importance of international cooperation and concerted efforts by naval forces to combat maritime piracy and uphold the rule of law at sea.