In a daring operation, Indian Navy’s elite MARCOS commandos successfully rescued all 21 crew members, including 15 Indians, from the hijacked cargo ship ‘MV Lila Norfolk’ in the Arabian Sea. Here’s a detailed account of the heroic rescue mission:
Navy’s Rapid Response
The incident unfolded when the 84,000-tonne bulk carrier was hijacked by unknown armed personnel near the coast of Somalia. Responding swiftly, the Navy deployed a formidable arsenal, including a warship, maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters, P-8I and long-range aircraft, and Predator MQ9B drones.
MARCOS Sanitization
The elite commando unit, MARCOS, executed a precision operation, thoroughly sanitizing the top deck of the cargo ship. The focus was on the citadel, a fortified section used as a refuge during pirate attacks. The commandos confirmed the absence of hijackers, ensuring the safety of all 21 crew members.
Forceful Warning and Evacuation
Commander Vivek Madhwal, Indian Navy’s spokesperson, revealed that the attempt to hijack the vessel was likely abandoned due to a forceful warning by the Navy’s maritime patrol aircraft. The crew, including 15 Indians, was safely evacuated from the citadel.
INS Chennai’s Intervention
The navy destroyer, INS Chennai, diverted from its anti-piracy patrol, launched a helicopter, and issued a warning to the pirates. The warship is now working to restore power and propulsion to allow the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier to continue its journey to the next port of call.
Owner’s Gratitude
Steve Kunzer, CEO of Lila Global, the Dubai-based owners of ‘MV Lila Norfolk,’ expressed gratitude to the Indian Navy for their professionalism in executing the rescue. He also commended the crew’s safe and responsible reaction to the crisis.
International Response
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the hijacking, underlining the international cooperation in addressing maritime security threats. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in strategic waterways, with recent shipping attacks and geopolitical factors influencing maritime routes.
Ongoing Naval Vigilance
Last month, the Indian Navy intensified its presence at sea to maintain a deterrent against attacks, following a series of incidents, including a drone attack near India’s coast attributed to Iran by the United States.
Regional Challenges
The recent hijacking comes in the wake of vessels rerouting from the Red Sea due to Yemen’s Houthi rebels’ activities. The rebels, backed by Iran, have carried out drone and missile attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict with Israel.
In conclusion, the successful rescue operation by the Indian Navy showcases their commitment to maritime security. The swift and decisive actions of the MARCOS commandos averted a potential crisis, ensuring the safety of the crew and the integrity of international shipping lanes.
