According to Indian Navy sources, Indian Navy’s Mission Deployed platforms responded swiftly to a maritime incident in Arabian Sea involving a hijacking attempt onboard Liberia Flagged bulk carrier.
Shailesh Kumar, National Defence
New Delhi, 05 January 2024
The vessel had sent a message on UKMTO portal indicating boarding by approx five to six unknown armed personnel in the evening on 04 Jan 24.
Indian Navy Marine Commandos boarded the vessel and searched the living spaces, machinery compartments, and upper decks. No pirates were found.
News Agency Reuters quoting British security firm Ambrey reported that the vessel was destined for Khalifa bin Salman in Bahrain. Responding swiftly to the developing situation, Indian Navy launched an MPA and has diverted INS Chennai deployed for Maritime Security Operations to assist the vessel.
The aircraft overflew the vessel on early morning of 05 Jan 24 and established contact with the vessel, ascertaining the Safety of the crew.
Naval aircraft continues to monitor movement and INS Chennai is closing the vessel to render assistance. The overall situation is being closely monitored, in coordination with other agencies/ Multinational forces in the area.
Update
The crew of 21 was rescued and is safe. The vessel MV Lila Norfolk will resume its journey under the escort of the INS Chennai.
According to Navy, the Indian Navy remains committed to ensuring safety of merchant shipping in the region along with international partners and friendly foreign countries
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