Indian navy intercepts Somali pirate hijacked ship in Red Sea region

Indian Navy, on Saturday, successfully intercepted the hijacked cargo ship, Ruen, thwarting the efforts of Somali pirates who had seized the Maltese-flagged bulk cargo vessel since December 14, last year.

The incident is believed to have happened in the Red Sea region, where India had deployed massively to curtail activities of pirates on the high seas.

The navy’s swift and decisive action in international waters demonstrated their commitment to maritime security and combating piracy in the region.

According to a navy spokesperson, the pirates onboard the Ruen resorted to opening fire on the Indian navy warship during the interception, escalating tensions in the already volatile situation.

The navy, however, stood firm in their demand for the pirates to surrender and release both the vessel and any civilians who might have been held captive.

The incident sheds light on the resurgence of piracy activities in the region, with the European Union naval force indicating that the same group of Somali pirates might have been involved in the recent takeover of a Bangladesh-flagged cargo ship off the coast of Somalia.

This brazen act underscores the ongoing threat posed by piracy to maritime trade and security.

Prior to the hijacking of the Ruen, Somali pirates had not successfully hijacked a merchant ship since 2017, marking a concerning resurgence of piracy incidents in recent months.

The Indian navy has been vigilant in monitoring and responding to such threats, with reports of at least 17 incidents of hijacking, attempted hijacking, or suspicious approaches since December.

The interception of the Ruen serves as a testament to the Indian Navy’s readiness and capability to protect vital sea lanes and ensure the safety of maritime trade.

Their proactive stance in combating piracy not only safeguards the interests of the shipping industry but also upholds international maritime laws and norms.

As the global community grapples with the challenges of maritime security, the successful operation by the Indian Navy against Somali pirates on the cargo ship Ruen serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for collaborative efforts to counter piracy and uphold the safety and security of seafarers and vessels navigating the high seas.

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