The Indian Navy has deployed the INS Chennai to intercept and assist the MV Lila Norfolk, a Liberian-flagged vessel hijacked near Somalia’s coast. The vessel, carrying at least 15 Indian crew members, sent out distress signals on the evening of January 4, reporting the presence of five to six unknown armed personnel on board.
Acting on the information received on Thursday evening, the Indian Navy immediately diverted the INS Chennai to the location of the hijacked vessel. Simultaneously, a naval aircraft closely monitored the situation, establishing contact with the MV Lila Norfolk on Friday.
The ship’s distress message was relayed through the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations portal, raising concerns about the safety of the crew members and the vessel’s security. The swift response from the Indian Navy reflects the nation’s commitment to safeguarding maritime interests and ensuring the security of its citizens at sea.
The increased surveillance of the Arabian Sea by the Indian Navy comes in the wake of recent security challenges in the region. This incident follows the Navy’s proactive measures earlier in the week, where they investigated numerous fishing vessels and boarded suspicious vessels in the North and Central Arabian Sea.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India’s role as a net security provider in the entire Indian Ocean region, pledging to elevate maritime trade in the area. The ongoing efforts signify the nation’s determination to maintain peace and security in the maritime domain, ensuring the safety of vessels and their crew members navigating the crucial waterways.
