Indian Navy rescues all 20 crew members of pirated vessel Azini in 48-hour operation

New Delhi: The Indian Navy has rescued all 20 crew members of the fishing vessel Azini after a coordinated 48-hour operation in the Arabian Sea, more than 3,000 km from Mumbai, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said.

The operation was successfully completed on November 2, with the Navy locating and intercepting the vessel and securing the release of the crew from heavily armed pirates.

Congratulating the Navy on the successful mission, Singh said the operation demonstrated the force's high operational readiness and its ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region.

In a post on X, the Defence Minister said the vessel and its crew were safely secured following a swift operation, with timely support from the Indian Air Force.

"The swift localisation, interception and safe release of the crew and vessel from significantly-armed pirates, with timely support from the Indian Air Force, speak well of the Indian Navy’s high operational readiness and ability to respond decisively to maritime threats across the region," he said.

Praising the personnel involved, Singh said they had once again demonstrated India's resolve to safeguard lives and uphold maritime security.

"Our brave personnel have once again demonstrated India’s ability, intent and resolve to safeguard lives, uphold maritime security and ensure stability across the Indian Ocean Region," he said.

Reiterating India's commitment to maritime security, he said the country would continue to work towards ensuring safe seas and a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region.

The operation also underscored the coordination between the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force in addressing maritime security threats far from India's coastline.

IANS