New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday congratulated the Indian Navy for rescuing all 20 crew members of a fishing vessel hijacked by armed pirates in the Arabian Sea, more than 3,000 km from Mumbai.
In a statement, Singh said the Navy carried out a coordinated 48-hour operation on November 2 to locate, intercept and secure the release of the crew and the vessel, Azini. The operation also received timely support from the Indian Air Force.
He said the successful rescue demonstrated the Navy’s operational readiness and its ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region.
Singh praised the personnel involved, saying they had once again demonstrated India’s commitment and capability to protect lives, uphold maritime security and maintain stability across the Indian Ocean Region.
India remains committed to ensuring safe seas and a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region, he said.
