In a swift and strategic response, the Indian Navy, through its warship INS Sumitra, successfully thwarted two separate hijacking incidents off the coast of Somalia within a mere 36 hours. The rescues come amid growing concerns of a potential resurgence in piracy activities in the region.
History of Piracy in the Somali Waters
Once notorious for piracy, the waters off the Somali coast had witnessed a significant decline in such incidents due to increased international patrols. India has been actively involved in patrolling the area since 2008. However, recent developments suggest a shift in focus, with naval forces redirecting their attention to the Red Sea, leaving a potential gap that could be exploited by pirates.
Rising Threats and Recent Incidents
Houthi Rebel Attacks in the Red Sea
The Houthi rebel group, based in Yemen, has intensified attacks on ships in the Red Sea, prompting a redirection of naval forces. This shift has raised concerns among experts who now fear a resurgence of piracy in the vacated region.
Recent Successful Hijacking
The first successful hijacking in the area since 2017 occurred last December, sounding alarms within maritime security circles. Michael Howlett, director of the International Maritime Bureau, expressed concern, though some experts believe these incidents are more opportunistic than indicative of a full-scale resurgence.
Indian Navy’s Swift Response
January Surge in Attacks
In response to a distress call on January 28, the Indian Navy intercepted an Iranian-flagged vessel, successfully coercing the pirates for the safe release of the 17 crew members. The ship was then thoroughly sanitized before resuming its journey.
Second Rescue Operation
Two days later, on Tuesday, INS Sumitra was again pressed into action, intercepting another Iranian-flagged fishing vessel, Al Naeemi. Navy personnel boarded the vessel, ensuring the well-being of the 19 Pakistani sailors on board. Photo evidence on social media showed armed navy personnel detaining pirates with their hands tied.
Overall Vigilance and Recent Rescues
Highlighting their commitment to maritime security, Indian Navy commandos had earlier rescued 21 crew members from a Liberian-flagged ship attacked by pirates off the Somalian coast. The navy’s swift response demonstrates its proactive approach in countering piracy threats.
International Cooperation and Responses
In a coordinated effort, the Seychelles reported the successful rescue of six Sri Lankan fishermen, held hostage by gunmen over 800 nautical miles southeast of Mogadishu. Additionally, the Indian Navy, along with French and US naval ships, responded to a distress call from the tanker Marlin Luanda, ensuring assistance after it was hit by a missile fired by the Houthis.
In conclusion, while concerns loom over the potential resurgence of piracy off the Somali coast, the Indian Navy’s proactive measures and international collaboration showcase a determined effort to maintain maritime security and curb piracy threats in the region.
