MAJOR EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS 2023-24 (II)

 From January 28, 2024 to March 06, 2024

 Map overview highlighting recent incidents the indian navy has responded to in order to ensure maritime security and safety.

(7) Hijack incident onboard fishing vessel IMAN off the east coast of Somalia

On 28 January 2024, an incident of hijacking occurred involving the Iran-flagged fishing vessel IMAN. Following this event, an Indian Navy warship named Sumitra intervened, employing established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to confront the unidentified perpetrators. As a result of this intervention, all 17 crew members were successfully rescued, and the vessel was subsequently sanitized and released.

(8) Hijack incident onboard fishing vessel Al NAEEMI off the east coast of Somalia

On 29 January 2024, an Iran-flagged fishing vessel named AL NAEEMI encountered a hijacking incident off the East Coast of Somalia. A group of 11 armed perpetrators seized control of the vessel, which was carrying 19 Pakistani fishermen. Responding swiftly, the Indian Navy deployed its warship, Sumitra, to intercept the hijacked vessel on the same day. Utilizing a combination of coercive tactics and strategic deployment of its helicopter and boats, the Sumitra successfully compelled the safe release of both the crew and the vessel. All 19 fishermen were rescued unharmed, while the 11 perpetrators were apprehended and brought into custody.

(9) Hijack incident onboard fishing vessel OMARI off the east coast of Somalia

On 02 February 2024, the Indian Navy vessel INS Sharda successfully intercepted a hijacked fishing vessel, the FV OMARI. This interception occurred off the East Coast of Somalia. The vessel, flagged under Iran, had been commandeered by seven armed perpetrators, endangering the lives of its 19 crew members, comprising eight from Pakistan and eleven from Iran.

Responding to the distress call, INS Sharda, engaged in an anti-piracy mission, diverted its course to confront the hijackers. Upon arrival, the warship deployed its helicopter and boats to execute a strategic maneuver aimed at compelling the pirates to release the crew and relinquish control of the vessel.

Following the successful operation, a confirmatory boarding of the FV OMARI was conducted by the Indian Navy to ensure the safety and well-being of the rescued crew, who had endured captivity at the hands of the Somali pirates.

(10) Missile attack on MV ISLANDER in the gulf of Aden

On 22 February 2024, in a likely conflict-related incident, a vessel MV ISLANDER encountered an attack by two anti-ship ballistic missiles. One crew member sustained injuries, while the vessel suffered minor damage from the impact of one missile. Promptly, the Indian Navy Ship Kolkata extended medical aid to the injured crew member, showcasing its commitment to humanitarian assistance in maritime operations. Upon embarking the vessel, Indian Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists meticulously sanitized it, ensuring the mitigation of any residual risks. The vessel was subsequently cleared for onward transit, signifying the successful culmination of the operation.

(11) Missile attack on MV MSC SKY II iin the gulf of Aden

On 04 March 2024, a distress call was received regarding an incident involving the MSC SKY II, a container vessel flying the Liberian flag. It was reported that the vessel had encountered two anti-ship ballistic missiles approximately 90 nautical miles southeast of Aden. The master of the vessel promptly notified authorities upon observing smoke and fire on board. Responding swiftly to the distress call, the Indian Navy Ship (INS) Kolkata arrived at the scene to provide assistance. In the early morning hours of the following day, a specialized firefighting team comprising 12 personnel from INS Kolkata boarded the MV to aid in extinguishing the residual fire and smoke. Following the master's request, the Indian Navy escorted the vessel from the incident site to the territorial waters of Djibouti, ensuring the safety of both the vessel and its 23 crew members.

(12) Missile attack on MV TRUE CONFIDENCE in the gulf of Aden

On 06 March 2024, following the impact of an Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile (ASBM), the vessel sustained significant damage, resulting in critical injuries and the unfortunate loss of three crew members. Prompt action was taken as all crew members evacuated the vessel, subsequently rescued by the Indian Navy ship KOLKATA and safely disembarked at the port of Djibouti.

*Thanks to the services of the Indian Embassy in Paris for their assistance in gathering information.

Credits photos: Indian services