In a rapid and decisive operation, the Indian Navy has responded to a hijacking incident involving the Malta-flagged vessel MV Ruen in the Arabian Sea. Six unknown individuals took control of the vessel, which was carrying 18 crew members. The Navy’s warship and maritime patrol aircraft were immediately deployed to address the situation and locate the hijacked vessel.
According to official statements, the Naval Maritime Patrol aircraft and an anti-piracy patrol warship successfully intercepted MV Ruen. The Indian Navy’s aircraft conducted surveillance, and the warship took swift action to ensure the safety and security of the vessel and its crew.
“The aircraft overflew the hijacked vessel on the early morning of December 15, 2023, and IN [Indian Navy] aircraft have been continuously monitoring the movement of the vessel, which is now heading towards the coast of Somalia,” the Indian Navy stated in a press release.
The Navy’s warship, deployed for anti-piracy patrol in the Gulf of Aden, intercepted MV Ruen in the early hours of Saturday. The vessel is now under continuous monitoring to assess the situation and ensure the safety of the crew.
Simultaneously, a Spanish navy ship, the Victoria, has been dispatched to the scene to gather more information and evaluate further actions. The European Union’s Somali counter-piracy force received an alert about the “alleged pirate-hijacked vessel” Ruen, which was approximately 500 nautical miles east of Socotra Island, off the coast of Somalia.
The hijacking incident has raised concerns about piracy activities in the region, prompting international coordination efforts. The Spanish navy ship is coordinating with other naval forces, including the broader international naval Combined Maritime Force, to address the situation.
While the exact details of the hijacking remain unclear, maritime security company Ambrey believes the vessel has fallen victim to pirates. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of piracy in strategic waterways and the need for coordinated efforts to ensure maritime security in the region.
As the situation unfolds, the Indian Navy and international maritime forces remain vigilant, emphasizing the importance of swift responses to such incidents to safeguard the maritime domain. Stay tuned for updates on this developing maritime security situation.
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