NEW DELHI: The Indian Navy rescued all 20 crew members of the pirated fishing vessel Azini in a 48-hour operation in the Arabian Sea, more than 3,000 km from Mumbai, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said.
In a post on X, Singh said the rescue was carried out on November 2 through a coordinated effort involving the swift localisation and interception of the vessel, followed by the safe release of its crew and the vessel from significantly armed pirates. The operation was supported by the Indian Air Force.
"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," he said.
Singh said the personnel had demonstrated India's resolve to safeguard lives and uphold maritime security, adding that the country remains committed to "SAFE SEAS" and a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region. (With inputs from media organisations)