The Indian Navy has freed the Iranian fishing vessel 'Azini', which had been hijacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia. The rescue operation, conducted in coordination with the Indian Air Force, resulted in the safe rescue of all 20 crew members of the ship without injury.
Details of the Rescue Operation
On Friday, armed pirates suddenly attacked the 'Azini', which was located approximately 185 nautical miles east of the port of 'Bander Beila'. Reports indicate that this group of pirates intended to use the ship as a mothership for further attacks on commercial vessels, which is a common tactic employed by Somali pirates. Given the movements of the 'Azini', it became clear that the ship was heading towards a more dangerous area for commercial vessels.
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Collaboration Between the Indian Navy and Air Force
In response to this situation, the Indian Navy dispatched a warship to intercept the hijacked vessel. In a coordinated operation supported by an airborne commando unit from the Indian Navy, the navy successfully freed the 'Azini' and captured the pirates. According to a statement from India's Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh, this 48-hour operation was well-planned and executed, demonstrating the high readiness of the Indian Navy.
He added: "Congratulations to the Indian Navy for successfully executing a coordinated and precise operation that led to the rescue of all 20 crew members of the hijacked fishing vessel 'Azini'. The Navy's ability to identify, intercept, and safely rescue the crew and vessel from armed pirates showcases the operational readiness of this force."
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