International Desk

The Indian Navy has intercepted a Malta-flagged ship hijacked in the Arabian Sea which had fallen into the hands of Somali pirates in December.

The ex-MV Ruen, now used for piracy, was apprehended by an Indian Navy warship on 15 March. The navy’s response came after the pirate-controlled vessel opened fire on the warship upon interception.

The Indian Navy retaliated in self-defence and countered the pirates, using minimal force to neutralise the threat posed by the pirates. “#IndianNavy thwarts designs of Somali pirates to hijack ships plying through the region by intercepting ex-MV Ruen. The ex-MV Ruen, which had been hijacked by Somali pirates on #14Dec 23, was reported to have sailed out as a pirate ship towards conducting acts of #piracy on high seas,” the Navy said in a post on X.

‘International law’

“The vessel was intercepted by the #IndianNavy warship on #15Mar. The vessel opened fire on the warship, which is taking actions iaw international law, in self-defence & to counter piracy, with minimal force necessary to neutralise the pirates’ threat to shipping and seafarers,” according to the Indian Navy.

The navy said that efforts are underway to persuade the pirates onboard the vessel to surrender and release any civilians they may be held against their will. It reaffirmed its dedication to maritime security and the safety of seafarers in the region.

“The #IndianNavy remains committed to #maritimesecurity & safety of seafarers in the region,” the navy said.

Around the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy has been among the first responders to ensure the safety of merchant shipping, along with international partners and friendly foreign countries.

In November, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar said more than 50 warships of extra-regional forces remain deployed in the Indian Ocean Region for different missions, such as anti-piracy patrol off the Gulf of Aden. He made these remarks at the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD), which was held in New Delhi.

Source: News18