India says mission launched against hijacking attempt in Arabian Sea

NEW DELHI

The Indian Navy on Friday said it launched a mission to respond to a hijacking attempt on a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier in the Arabian Sea.

In an official statement, the navy said the vessel had sent a message “indicating boarding by approximately five to six unknown armed personnel in the evening on Jan. 2, 2024,” and a navy mission responded swiftly to the maritime incident.

“Navy launched an MPA (maritime patrol aircraft) and has diverted the Indian Navy ship Chennai deployed for maritime security operations to assist the vessel,” the statement said, adding that aircraft overflew the vessel on early Friday morning and established contact with the vessel, ascertaining the safety of the crew.

The naval aircraft continue to monitor movement and the ship Chennai is closing the vessel to render assistance, and the overall situation “is being closely monitored,” the Indian Navy said.

It added: “The Indian Navy remains committed to ensuring safety of merchant shipping in the region along with international partners and friendly foreign countries.”

“The Indian Navy swiftly responds to a maritime incident in the Arabian Sea, thwarting hijacking attempt onboard a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier. Mission deployed platforms in action to ensure maritime security,” said Bharat Bhushan Babu, spokesman for the Indian Defense Ministry.

India has recently vowed to take "strict action" against those behind the attack on a merchant ship off its western coast in Arabian Sea. Amid attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea, India has deployed warships as a force deterrent in the region.