The Indian Navy has successfully rescued all 20 crew members of an Iranian fishing vessel hijacked by armed pirates in the Arabian Sea. The challenging operation, which lasted 48 hours, was carried out on November 2, more than 3,000 kilometres from Mumbai.

The vessel, named Azini, was intercepted by the Indian Navy following efforts to locate the hijacked ship and secure the release of its crew. All 20 crew members were rescued safely, and the vessel was secured.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the successful operation and congratulated the Indian Navy for its coordinated response. In a post on X, he praised the Navy for carrying out the mission despite the considerable distance from India’s western coast and the threat posed by heavily armed pirates.

Indian Air Force provides support for rescue operation

The 48-hour mission involved multiple stages, including locating the hijacked vessel, intercepting it and ensuring the safe release of the crew. The Indian Air Force also provided timely support during the operation.

Praising the coordination between the two defence services, Rajnath Singh said the mission demonstrated the Indian Navy’s operational readiness and its ability to respond effectively to maritime threats across the region.

Vessel hijacked off Somalia’s coast

The Iranian fishing vessel Azini was reportedly hijacked on October 29 between the coastal towns of Bandar Bayla and Hafun in northeastern Somalia. A maritime security officer with the Puntland Maritime Police Force confirmed the incident to The Associated Press.

The successful rescue highlights India’s growing role in maritime security operations beyond its immediate coastal waters. Reaffirming India’s commitment to safeguarding international shipping routes, Rajnath Singh said the country would continue to work towards ensuring safe seas and a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region.