In a successful operation, the Indian Navy rescued a ship, MV Lila Norfolk, which had fallen prey to pirates off the coast of Somalia last Thursday. The navy’s commando forces executed the rescue, evacuating all crew members without encountering any pirates on board.
The Liberian-flagged ship was en route to Bahrain when it reported being hijacked east of Somalia’s Eyl city according to sources. The distress call came from the 21-member crew, including 15 Indian nationals, who reported an armed seizure of the vessel by five to six individuals.
Responding promptly, an Indian patrol aircraft and the guided missile destroyer INS Chennai were dispatched to the location. Before the commandos boarded the MV Lila Norfolk, a warning was issued to the pirates.
This incident raises concerns about the potential resurgence of piracy off the Somali coast. From 2008 to 2011, Somali pirate attacks posed a significant threat to international shipping, prompting various nations to deploy warships for patrols in the region. The recent successful rescue by the Indian Navy showcases continued efforts to combat piracy and ensure maritime security in the strategically important waters.
Mustaqbal
