The Indian Navy, an aircraft swiftly flew to rescue a hijacked Malta-flagged ship, MV Ruen, with 18 crew members onboard in the Arabian Sea on December 15. This recent incident underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to maritime security and its ability to respond effectively to distress calls. When it was attacked, it was in Somalia.
In response to a distress call, known as a Mayday message on the UKMTO portal, from MV Ruen reporting a hijacking by at least six ‘pirates,’ the Indian Navy’s Mission Deployed platform got into action. The urgency of the situation prompted a decisive response. The Indian Navy immediately diverted a Naval Maritime Patrol aircraft on a surveillance mission in the region and directed a warship engaged in anti-piracy patrol in the Gulf of Aden to locate and assist MV Ruen. This coordinated effort aimed to swiftly assess the situation and neutralize the threat.
On a Friday morning, the Naval Maritime Patrol aircraft conducted an overflight of the hijacked ship, closely monitoring its movements. The vessel was observed heading towards the Somalia coast in eastern Africa, raising concerns about its destination and the safety of the crew. Simultaneously on Saturday, the Indian Navy warship deployed in the Gulf of Aden intercepted the MV Ruen. Highlighting the significance of global cooperation in maritime security, the Indian Navy collaborated with international maritime agencies to address the MV Ruen hijacking. This joint effort demonstrates the shared commitment to ensuring safe and secure seas.
