The Indian Navy effectively stopped Somali pirates from using the ex-merchant ship Ruen to hijack ships cruising the area in a daring operation to protect maritime security, an Indian Navy spokesperson said.
It was claimed that the ex-MV Ruen, which Somali pirates had taken over on December 14, 2023, had resurfaced as a pirate ship and was posing a threat to commercial business on the high seas. On March 15, an Indian Navy cruiser assaulted the pirate vessel in quick response to the threat. They might have tried to commandeer a cargo ship flying the flag of Bangladesh off the coast of Somalia.
The Indian Navy has issued a command to the pirates on board to surrender right away and free any civilians they may be detaining against their will. The Indian Navy reaffirmed its steadfast dedication to upholding maritime security and guaranteeing mariners’ safety when they navigate these dangerous regions. The Indian Navy’s action demonstrates India’s commitment to enforcing international maritime regulations and fighting piracy.
In order to continue anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy carried out airborne insertion of Special Forces earlier in February by paradropping inflatable watercraft and MARCOs from C-130 aircraft. Before that, in January, the Indian Navy cruiser INS Sumitra had successfully rescued 19 Pakistani citizens after foiling a pirate attempt on the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi, which was cruising off the East Coast of Somalia.
