In one of India's biggest piracy prosecutions, a special court in Mumbai today has sentenced 44 Somali pirates to life imprisonment&nbsp;for hijacking two vessels in the Arabian Sea, holding that acts of piracy threaten not just individual ships but international maritime security and global trade. The verdict marks a significant milestone in India's anti-piracy efforts and comes after the accused admitted to their involvement in the crimes while seeking leniency from the court.&nbsp;Before the sentencing, 43 of the 44 accused pleaded guilty, telling the court that they were "poor citizens" of Somalia and first-time offenders. Through their applications, they urged the court to take a humanitarian view, saying they had endured severe hardship during their incarceration in India.&nbsp;The pirates said they had struggled with language barriers, unfamiliar food and cultural differences while lodged in Indian prisons. They also claimed they had no relatives, friends or support system in India, making their stay in custody even more difficult.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-deploys-thousands-of-troops-heavy-weapons-to-contain-pok-protests-gravitas-1784569198815">Pakistan deploys thousands of troops, heavy weapons to contain PoK protests | Gravitas</a>&nbsp;Stressing that they were voluntarily pleading guilty despite knowing the offences carried the possibility of life imprisonment, they requested the court to show mercy, arguing that it was their first offence and describing Somalia as "an allied country with good diplomatic relations with India."&nbsp;However, the special court rejected their plea for a lighter sentence, observing that piracy is a grave offence with far-reaching consequences for maritime safety, international commerce and the lives of seafarers. The court ruled that the seriousness of the crimes outweighed the mitigating circumstances cited by the accused.&nbsp;The convictions relate to the hijacking of the merchant vessel MV Ruen&nbsp;and the Iranian fishing vessel Al-Kambar 786, incidents that prompted swift intervention by the Indian Navy&nbsp;during anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. Naval commandos successfully rescued the hostages, secured the vessels and apprehended the pirates, who were subsequently brought to Mumbai for prosecution.&nbsp;The accused were convicted under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita/Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act, the Passports Act, the Foreigners Act, and the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act. The prosecution argued that the pirates, armed with automatic weapons, had endangered the lives of crew members and disrupted international shipping routes.&nbsp;Investigators relied on witness testimonies, naval personnel accounts, forensic evidence and documentary records to establish the case.&nbsp;Over the past decade, the Indian Navy has intensified anti-piracy patrols, escort missions and rescue operations as attacks by Somali pirates resurfaced along vital global shipping lanes.

The pirates said they had struggled with language barriers, unfamiliar food and cultural differences while lodged in Indian prisons. They also claimed they had no relatives, friends or support system in India, making their stay in custody even more difficult. 

In one of India's biggest piracy prosecutions, a special court in Mumbai today has sentenced 44 Somali pirates to life imprisonment for hijacking two vessels in the Arabian Sea, holding that acts of piracy threaten not just individual ships but international maritime security and global trade. The verdict marks a significant milestone in India's anti-piracy efforts and comes after the accused admitted to their involvement in the crimes while seeking leniency from the court. Before the sentencing, 43 of the 44 accused pleaded guilty, telling the court that they were "poor citizens" of Somalia and first-time offenders. Through their applications, they urged the court to take a humanitarian view, saying they had endured severe hardship during their incarceration in India. The pirates said they had struggled with language barriers, unfamiliar food and cultural differences while lodged in Indian prisons. They also claimed they had no relatives, friends or support system in India, making their stay in custody even more difficult. Also read: Pakistan deploys thousands of troops, heavy weapons to contain PoK protests | Gravitas Stressing that they were voluntarily pleading guilty despite knowing the offences carried the possibility of life imprisonment, they requested the court to show mercy, arguing that it was their first offence and describing Somalia as "an allied country with good diplomatic relations with India." However, the special court rejected their plea for a lighter sentence, observing that piracy is a grave offence with far-reaching consequences for maritime safety, international commerce and the lives of seafarers. The court ruled that the seriousness of the crimes outweighed the mitigating circumstances cited by the accused. The convictions relate to the hijacking of the merchant vessel MV Ruen and the Iranian fishing vessel Al-Kambar 786, incidents that prompted swift intervention by the Indian Navy during anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. Naval commandos successfully rescued the hostages, secured the vessels and apprehended the pirates, who were subsequently brought to Mumbai for prosecution. The accused were convicted under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita/Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act, the Passports Act, the Foreigners Act, and the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act. The prosecution argued that the pirates, armed with automatic weapons, had endangered the lives of crew members and disrupted international shipping routes. Investigators relied on witness testimonies, naval personnel accounts, forensic evidence and documentary records to establish the case. Over the past decade, the Indian Navy has intensified anti-piracy patrols, escort missions and rescue operations as attacks by Somali pirates resurfaced along vital global shipping lanes.

The pirates said they had struggled with language barriers, unfamiliar food and cultural differences while lodged in Indian prisons. They also claimed they had no relatives, friends or support system in India, making their stay in custody even more difficult.&nbsp;

Mumbai court gives life sentences to 44 Somali pirates despite mercy plea

Following a successful rescue operation by the Indian Navy, 23 Pakistani nationals aboard the Iranian fishing vessel Al-Kambar thanked the naval forces on Saturday (Mar 30) for their efforts to free them from Somali pirates who hijacked their ship.&nbsp;

The crew members, rescued from the clutches of Somali pirates, lauded the efforts of the Indian Navy for ensuring their safety. In a video statement, one of the Pakistani nationals looked relieved and said that they were rescued from the pirates by the Indian Navy after their relentless engagement throughout the night to thwart the pirates.

He thanked Navy for giving them their freedom back by making the pirates surrender.&nbsp;

The crew members were also seen chanting slogans and praising the Indian Navy. They chanted, "Indian Navy Ka Shukriya. India Zindabad (Thank you to the Indian Navy. Long live India)."

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Watch: "India Zindabad, Indian Navy Ka shukriya", 23 Pakistani Nationals thank Indian Navy for rescue mission on board Iran fishing vessel Al-Kambar against Somali pirates <a href="https://t.co/Fr8TgSZbE7">https://t.co/Fr8TgSZbE7</a> <a href="https://t.co/nESMeebcP1">pic.twitter.com/nESMeebcP1</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1774054669754700273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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India Navy said that it "remains committed to ensuring maritime security in the region &amp; safety of the seafarers, irrespective of the nationalities."

<h2>Hijacking of Al-Kambar 786</h2>

The fishing vessel Al-Kambar 786 was hijacked by pirates southwest of the Yemeni island of Socotra on March 28.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-greenlit-printing-of-119bn-electoral-bonds-days-before-sc-scrapped-scheme-705998">Indian govt greenlit printing of $1.19bn electoral bonds days before SC scrapped scheme</a>

Upon receiving the distress call, two Indian Naval ships, INS Sumedha and INS Trishul, were diverted to intercept the hijacked vessel, which had been boarded by armed pirates.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-minister-kailash-gahlot-appears-before-ed-in-excise-policy-case-705924">Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot appears before ED in excise policy case</a>

"Two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in the Arabian Sea for maritime security operations were diverted to intercept the hijacked FV, reported to have been boarded by nine armed pirates," the Navy said in a statement.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-indians-lured-with-fake-promises-to-russia-tortured-for-not-joining-russian-army-wion-705996">Two Indians lured with fake promises to Russia, tortured for not joining Russian Army | WION</a>

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After over 12 hours of intense tactical measures as per Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the pirates surrendered. Later, the Indian Naval specialist teams conducted thorough checks and ensured the vessel's seaworthiness.

The crew, comprising 23 Pakistani nationals, also underwent medical check-ups before being cleared to resume fishing activities. Meanwhile, the captured pirates are being brought to India for further legal proceedings in alignment with the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act of 2022, as per a Navy.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following a successful rescue operation by the Indian Navy, 23 Pakistani nationals aboard the Iranian fishing vessel Al-Kambar thanked the naval forces on Saturday (Mar 30) for their efforts to free them from Somali pirates who hijacked their ship.

Following a successful rescue operation by the Indian Navy, 23 Pakistani nationals aboard the Iranian fishing vessel Al-Kambar thanked the naval forces on Saturday (Mar 30) for their efforts to free them from Somali pirates who hijacked their ship. The crew members, rescued from the clutches of Somali pirates, lauded the efforts of the Indian Navy for ensuring their safety. In a video statement, one of the Pakistani nationals looked relieved and said that they were rescued from the pirates by the Indian Navy after their relentless engagement throughout the night to thwart the pirates. He thanked Navy for giving them their freedom back by making the pirates surrender. The crew members were also seen chanting slogans and praising the Indian Navy. They chanted, "Indian Navy Ka Shukriya. India Zindabad (Thank you to the Indian Navy. Long live India)." Watch: "India Zindabad, Indian Navy Ka shukriya", 23 Pakistani Nationals thank Indian Navy for rescue mission on board Iran fishing vessel Al-Kambar against Somali pirates https://t.co/Fr8TgSZbE7 pic.twitter.com/nESMeebcP1 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 30, 2024 × India Navy said that it "remains committed to ensuring maritime security in the region & safety of the seafarers, irrespective of the nationalities." Hijacking of Al-Kambar 786 The fishing vessel Al-Kambar 786 was hijacked by pirates southwest of the Yemeni island of Socotra on March 28. Also Read | Indian govt greenlit printing of $1.19bn electoral bonds days before SC scrapped scheme Upon receiving the distress call, two Indian Naval ships, INS Sumedha and INS Trishul, were diverted to intercept the hijacked vessel, which had been boarded by armed pirates. Also Read | Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot appears before ED in excise policy case "Two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in the Arabian Sea for maritime security operations were diverted to intercept the hijacked FV, reported to have been boarded by nine armed pirates," the Navy said in a statement. Watch | Two Indians lured with fake promises to Russia, tortured for not joining Russian Army | WION × After over 12 hours of intense tactical measures as per Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the pirates surrendered. Later, the Indian Naval specialist teams conducted thorough checks and ensured the vessel's seaworthiness. The crew, comprising 23 Pakistani nationals, also underwent medical check-ups before being cleared to resume fishing activities. Meanwhile, the captured pirates are being brought to India for further legal proceedings in alignment with the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act of 2022, as per a Navy. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | ‘India zindabad’: 29 Pakistanis rescued from Somali pirates thank Indian Navy

The Indian Navy on Friday (Mar 29) rescued 23 Pakistani nationals from a hijacked Iranian fishing vessel. The navy launched a 12-hour-long operation against Somali pirates and forced them to surrender even without firing a bullet.

The operation began in the early hours on Friday as Indian Navy warship INS Sumedha caught the hijacked vessel ‘FV A1-Kambar’. The operation was soon joined by another Indian warship, INS Sumedha, eventually leading to one more successful operation against piracy in the Arabian Sea.

<h2>Ship guided to safe location</h2>

The navy detained the pirates and carried out an extensive sanitisation and inspection on board, to make sure the ship was safe to be guided towards a different location.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> Responds to Piracy Attack in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArabianSea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArabianSea</a>. 
 
Inputs received on a potential piracy incident onboard Iranian Fishing Vessel 'Al-Kambar' late evening on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/28Mar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#28Mar</a> 24, approx 90 nm South West of Socotra. 
Two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArabianSea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArabianSea</a> for… <a href="https://t.co/PdEZiCAu3t">pic.twitter.com/PdEZiCAu3t</a>
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According to media reports, nine pirates had boarded the Iranian vessel some 90 nautical miles southwest of Socotra Archipelago.

In an official statement, the Indian Navy said, “We remain committed to ensuring maritime security in the region and safety of seafarers, irrespective of nationalities."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiW05fZg5uFAxUdSWwGHYblARAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-responds-to-potential-piracy-attack-on-iranian-fishing-vessel-in-arabian-sea-705770" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-responds-to-potential-piracy-attack-on-iranian-fishing-vessel-in-arabian-sea-705770&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiW05fZg5uFAxUdSWwGHYblARAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Indian Navy responds to potential piracy attack on Iranian fishing vessel in Arabian Sea</a>

“The crew, comprising 23 Pakistani nationals, have been safely rescued,” a spokesperson of the navy said. “Indian Naval specialist teams are presently undertaking thorough sanitisation and seaworthiness checks of the FV in order to escort her to a safe area for resuming normal fishing activities,” the spokesperson said in an earlier statement.

Notably, the Indian Navy has carried out several high-octane operations against piracy attacks in the region, including the latest one during the early days of March.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian Navy hands over 35 Somali pirates to Mumbai police

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The navy intercepted the under-attack pirate ship, Ruen, sailing almost 2,600 km from the shores of the Indian Coast, and forced the pirate ship to stop through calibrated actions.

<h2>Navy's priorities</h2>

Earlier on March 28, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, said during an address at DSSC in Wellington that emphasis is being placed on making the navy Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future-Proof force.

He also stressed the importance of the navy in protecting the country's trade and maritime interests.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Navy on Friday (Mar 29) rescued 23 Pakistani nationals from a hijacked Iranian fishing vessel. The navy launched a 12-hour-long operation against Somali pirates and forced them to surrender even without firing a bullet.

The Indian Navy on Friday (Mar 29) rescued 23 Pakistani nationals from a hijacked Iranian fishing vessel. The navy launched a 12-hour-long operation against Somali pirates and forced them to surrender even without firing a bullet. The operation began in the early hours on Friday as Indian Navy warship INS Sumedha caught the hijacked vessel ‘FV A1-Kambar’. The operation was soon joined by another Indian warship, INS Sumedha, eventually leading to one more successful operation against piracy in the Arabian Sea. Ship guided to safe location The navy detained the pirates and carried out an extensive sanitisation and inspection on board, to make sure the ship was safe to be guided towards a different location. #IndianNavy Responds to Piracy Attack in the #ArabianSea. Inputs received on a potential piracy incident onboard Iranian Fishing Vessel 'Al-Kambar' late evening on #28Mar 24, approx 90 nm South West of Socotra. Two Indian Naval ships, mission deployed in the #ArabianSea for… pic.twitter.com/PdEZiCAu3t — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) March 29, 2024 × According to media reports, nine pirates had boarded the Iranian vessel some 90 nautical miles southwest of Socotra Archipelago. In an official statement, the Indian Navy said, “We remain committed to ensuring maritime security in the region and safety of seafarers, irrespective of nationalities." Also read: Indian Navy responds to potential piracy attack on Iranian fishing vessel in Arabian Sea “The crew, comprising 23 Pakistani nationals, have been safely rescued,” a spokesperson of the navy said. “Indian Naval specialist teams are presently undertaking thorough sanitisation and seaworthiness checks of the FV in order to escort her to a safe area for resuming normal fishing activities,” the spokesperson said in an earlier statement. Notably, the Indian Navy has carried out several high-octane operations against piracy attacks in the region, including the latest one during the early days of March. Watch | Indian Navy hands over 35 Somali pirates to Mumbai police × The navy intercepted the under-attack pirate ship, Ruen, sailing almost 2,600 km from the shores of the Indian Coast, and forced the pirate ship to stop through calibrated actions. Navy's priorities Earlier on March 28, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, said during an address at DSSC in Wellington that emphasis is being placed on making the navy Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future-Proof force. He also stressed the importance of the navy in protecting the country's trade and maritime interests. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Navy rescues 23 Pakistanis from hijacked Iranian vessel in Arabian Sea operation

The Indian Navy rescued 17 crew members of the vessel MV Ruen during an anti-piracy operation and captured 35 Somalian pirates. Indian navy handed over the captured pirates to Mumbai police.

Indian Navy hands over 35 Somali Pirates to Mumbai Police

Indian navy brings 35 Somali pirates after anti-piracy operation

Indian navy concludes anti-piracy operation, 35 Somali pirates handed to Mumbai police

Indian Navy hands over 35 Somali pirates to Mumbai police

Recently, the Indian Navy rescued 17 crew members from the vessel MV Ruen during an anti-piracy operation that led to the capture of 35 Somali pirates who had taken over the ship. The pirates were handed over to the Mumbai Police on Saturday (Mar&nbsp;23) after completing formalities with Customs and Immigration.&nbsp; 
 
Mumbai Police officials took the pirates in their custody and registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, Maritime Anti Piracy Act and the Arms Act.

<h2>How did the Indian Navy conduct this operation?</h2>

Last December, Somali pirates had hijacked the Bulgarian ship MV Ruen and last week&nbsp; they ventured out of Somali waters with piracy intentions, but the Indian Navy stepped in to thwart it.

On March 15, INS Kolkata intercepted the pirate ship, disabling its steering system and navigational aids, forcing it to halt. The operation involved a navy destroyer, a patrol ship, an Indian Air Force C-17 transporter flying over 1,500 miles to airdrop marine commandos, a naval drone, a reconnaissance drone, and a P-8 surveillance jet.

A press note by the Ministry of Defence read, “The Indian Navy as part of Maritime Security Operations has been carrying out extensive surveillance in the region including monitoring of traffic in Areas of Interest. Based on analysis of surveillance information, the Indian Navy was able to track the movement of the pirate ship Ruen and directed INS Kolkata to intercept the ship about 260 nautical miles (NM) east of Somalia.”

The Indian Navy safely evacuated all 17 original crew members of MV Ruen without any harm. Additionally, the 35 Somali pirates surrendered themselves the same day.

The pirates will face legal action under Indian laws, including the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act and the Arms Act.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-committed-to-combating-piracy-pm-modi-responds-after-bulgarian-president-praises-indian-navy-701698">'India is committed to combating piracy': PM Modi responds after Bulgarian president praises Indian Navy</a>

<h2>Gratitude from Bulgaria</h2>

Bulgarian leaders, including President Rumen Radev and Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel, expressed gratitude to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the successful operation. "My sincere gratitude to (PM Modi) for the brave action of (the) Navy rescuing the hijacked Bulgarian ship 'Ruen' and its crew, including 7 Bulgarian citizens," Radev tweeted on X.

<h2>Operation Sankalp</h2>

This operation carried out by INS Kolkata is part of the ongoing Operation Sankalp, where the Indian Navy ensures the safety of mercantile trade and seafarers in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Recently, the Indian Navy rescued 17 crew members from the vessel MV Ruen during an anti-piracy operation that led to the capture of 35 Somali pirates who had taken over the ship.

Recently, the Indian Navy rescued 17 crew members from the vessel MV Ruen during an anti-piracy operation that led to the capture of 35 Somali pirates who had taken over the ship. The pirates were handed over to the Mumbai Police on Saturday (Mar 23) after completing formalities with Customs and Immigration. Mumbai Police officials took the pirates in their custody and registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, Maritime Anti Piracy Act and the Arms Act. How did the Indian Navy conduct this operation? Last December, Somali pirates had hijacked the Bulgarian ship MV Ruen and last week they ventured out of Somali waters with piracy intentions, but the Indian Navy stepped in to thwart it. On March 15, INS Kolkata intercepted the pirate ship, disabling its steering system and navigational aids, forcing it to halt. The operation involved a navy destroyer, a patrol ship, an Indian Air Force C-17 transporter flying over 1,500 miles to airdrop marine commandos, a naval drone, a reconnaissance drone, and a P-8 surveillance jet. A press note by the Ministry of Defence read, “The Indian Navy as part of Maritime Security Operations has been carrying out extensive surveillance in the region including monitoring of traffic in Areas of Interest. Based on analysis of surveillance information, the Indian Navy was able to track the movement of the pirate ship Ruen and directed INS Kolkata to intercept the ship about 260 nautical miles (NM) east of Somalia.” The Indian Navy safely evacuated all 17 original crew members of MV Ruen without any harm. Additionally, the 35 Somali pirates surrendered themselves the same day. The pirates will face legal action under Indian laws, including the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act and the Arms Act. Also read | 'India is committed to combating piracy': PM Modi responds after Bulgarian president praises Indian Navy Gratitude from Bulgaria Bulgarian leaders, including President Rumen Radev and Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel, expressed gratitude to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the successful operation. "My sincere gratitude to (PM Modi) for the brave action of (the) Navy rescuing the hijacked Bulgarian ship 'Ruen' and its crew, including 7 Bulgarian citizens," Radev tweeted on X. Operation Sankalp This operation carried out by INS Kolkata is part of the ongoing Operation Sankalp, where the Indian Navy ensures the safety of mercantile trade and seafarers in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Navy hands over 35 Somali pirates caught last week to Mumbai Police: Here's all you need to know

It is not just the houthi threat that is affecting shipping routes in the Indian Ocean. Pirates from Somalia have made a comeback in the region, which further threatens shipping routes. That has led to surge in security and insurance costs for shipping giants across the world.

Threat of Somali pirates raise security & insurance costs

A 40-hour-long daring operation carried out by the Indian Navy has freed MV Ruen from Somali Pirates. The vessel was hijacked in December, taken to Somalia and turned into a mother pirate ship. Indian Navy has successfully evacuated all 17 crew members from the pirates' clutches, taken 35 pirates into custody. India's naval might has gathered much international praise...

India Fights Somali Pirates: PM Modi says, 'Committed to protecting freedom of navigation'

In a bold display of its maritime security capabilities, the Indian Navy has completed the rescue operation of&nbsp;the hijacked vessel MV Ruen, which was under the control of Somali pirates.

INS Kolkata, in the last 40 hours, through concerted actions successfully cornered and coerced all 35 pirates to surrender and ensured safe evacuation of 17 crew members in the evening on Saturday (Mar 16)&nbsp;from the pirate vessel without any injury.

INS Kolkata had carried out the interception of the Pirate Ship Ruen almost 1400 nm (2600km) from the Indian Coast, and forced the pirate ship to stop through calibrated actions which were augmented by INS Subhadra, HALE RPA, P8I maritime patrol aircraft &amp; MARCOS - PRAHARs air-dropped by C-17 aircraft.&nbsp;

The vessel has also been sanitised for presence of illegal arms, ammunition and contraband.

On March 15, an Indian Navy warship successfully intercepted the MV Ruen, marking a significant step in combating piracy on the high seas. However, the operation was met with resistance as the pirates onboard the vessel opened fire on the warship.

In adherence to international law, the Indian Navy had responded with measured force aimed at neutralising the pirates' threat while minimising collateral damage. The primary objective remains the safe release of the vessel and any civilians who may be held against their will by the pirates. The MV Ruen had been hijacked by Somali pirates on December 14, setting sail as a pirate ship, posing a grave threat to shipping lanes.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy in a statement said it is "committed to maritime security and safety of seafarers in the region"

The operation also involved Indian Navy's Marine Commandos (MARCOS), who were swiftly deployed into action to secure the vessel and counter the piracy threat. With their specialised training and expertise, MARCOS are instrumental in conducting complex maritime operations, ensuring the safety and security of India's maritime interests.&nbsp;

The Navy has also successfully established communication with the crew aboard the MV&nbsp;Ruen&nbsp;vessel, which was seized by Somali pirates. Among the crew of 15-16 members are individuals hailing from Angola, Bulgaria, and Myanmar.

The Indian Navy's proactive stance in responding to such threats is seen as key to protecting vital sea lanes and uphold global maritime security norms. The situation in western Indian Ocean remains unstable with Houthi attacks, piracy incident.

&nbsp;

In a bold display of its maritime security capabilities, the Indian Navy has completed the rescue operation of the hijacked vessel MV Ruen, which was under the control of Somali pirates.

In a bold display of its maritime security capabilities, the Indian Navy has completed the rescue operation of the hijacked vessel MV Ruen, which was under the control of Somali pirates. INS Kolkata, in the last 40 hours, through concerted actions successfully cornered and coerced all 35 pirates to surrender and ensured safe evacuation of 17 crew members in the evening on Saturday (Mar 16) from the pirate vessel without any injury. INS Kolkata had carried out the interception of the Pirate Ship Ruen almost 1400 nm (2600km) from the Indian Coast, and forced the pirate ship to stop through calibrated actions which were augmented by INS Subhadra, HALE RPA, P8I maritime patrol aircraft & MARCOS - PRAHARs air-dropped by C-17 aircraft. The vessel has also been sanitised for presence of illegal arms, ammunition and contraband. On March 15, an Indian Navy warship successfully intercepted the MV Ruen, marking a significant step in combating piracy on the high seas. However, the operation was met with resistance as the pirates onboard the vessel opened fire on the warship. In adherence to international law, the Indian Navy had responded with measured force aimed at neutralising the pirates' threat while minimising collateral damage. The primary objective remains the safe release of the vessel and any civilians who may be held against their will by the pirates. The MV Ruen had been hijacked by Somali pirates on December 14, setting sail as a pirate ship, posing a grave threat to shipping lanes. The Indian Navy in a statement said it is "committed to maritime security and safety of seafarers in the region" The operation also involved Indian Navy's Marine Commandos (MARCOS), who were swiftly deployed into action to secure the vessel and counter the piracy threat. With their specialised training and expertise, MARCOS are instrumental in conducting complex maritime operations, ensuring the safety and security of India's maritime interests. The Navy has also successfully established communication with the crew aboard the MV Ruen vessel, which was seized by Somali pirates. Among the crew of 15-16 members are individuals hailing from Angola, Bulgaria, and Myanmar. The Indian Navy's proactive stance in responding to such threats is seen as key to protecting vital sea lanes and uphold global maritime security norms. The situation in western Indian Ocean remains unstable with Houthi attacks, piracy incident.

Indian Navy makes 35 Somali pirates on board MV Ruen surrender, rescues crew

A 40-hour-long daring operation carried out by the Indian Navy has freed MV Ruen from Somali Pirates. The vessel was hijacked in December, taken to Somalia and turned into a mother pirate ship. Indian Navy has successfully evacuated all 17 crew members from the pirates' clutches, taken 35 pirates into custody. What were the other navies doing? Were they afraid to fight the Somali pirates at sea?

Gravitas: Indian Navy warships, MARCOS, drones fight Somali pirates at sea. Are other navies afraid?

Indian Navy is bringing 35 Somali pirates to India. Somali Pirates hijacked the merchant vessel Ruen in December 2023. Pirates hijacked the ship to use it as a 'mother pirate ship' to launch attacks on other commercial ships.

Indian Navy to bring Somali pirates to India for prosecution

The Indian Navy recently carried out two consecutive anti-piracy operations off the East Coast of Somalia, freeing crew members and vessels from Somali pirates. The navy's warship INS Sumitra rescued 19 Pakistani nationals aboard the fishing vessel Al Naeemi and 17 Iranian nationals aboard the FV Iman.

The Indian Navy recently carried out two consecutive anti-piracy operations off the East Coast of Somalia, freeing crew members and vessels from Somali pirates. The navy's warship INS Sumitra rescued 19 Pakistani nationals aboard the fishing vessel Al Naeemi and 17 Iranian nationals aboard the FV Iman. Now a video has surfaced of rescued Pakistani nationals waving goodbye to the navy personnel. In the 12-second video, the Pakistanis were heard saying bye to the Indian Navy personnel after they were rescued. "Bye, take care as you leave," (Bye, aaram se jana) one of the navy personnel could be heard saying. Here's a look at the video: "Bye...aram se jana (take care as u go", rescued Pakistanis after Indian Navy concludes it's anti piracy operation rescuing them from the clutches of Somali pirates https://t.co/1XQfrlS1lR pic.twitter.com/sVaDQQ0vsF — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 31, 2024 × The two rescue operations Earlier, the navy said in a statement on Tuesday, "The warship on PM 28 Jan 2024 had responded to a distress message regarding the hijacking of an Iranian flagged Fishing Vessel (FV) Iman, which had been boarded by pirates and the crew taken as hostages. The FV was intercepted by INS Sumitra and following the SOPs and coercive posturing the vessel and her Crew (17 Iranian Nationals) were safely rescued in the early hours of 29 Jan 2024." Also read | Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe "FV Iman was sanitised and released for onward transit," the statement added. The navy further said that subsequently, the warship located and intercepted another Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi which had been boarded by pirates, and the fishing vessel's 19 Pakistani crew were taken hostage. #IndianNavy remains committed to #MaritimeSecurity in the #IndianOceanRegion, in keeping with @PMOIndia's vision of #SAGAR. Indian Naval warships mission deployed in the #IOR are ensuring security against all #maritime threats, keeping our seas safe for mariners of all… pic.twitter.com/n2dAOg6jw6 — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) January 31, 2024 × "Responding swiftly to the developing situation Sumitra intercepted the FV on PM 29 Jan 2024 and through coercive posturing and effective deployment of her integral helicopter and boats compelled the safe release of the crew and the vessel. The ship also undertook confirmatory boarding to sanitise and also to check on the well-being of the crew who were held captive by the Somali pirates," it added.

‘Bye, take care as you leave’: Indian Navy personnel to Pakistanis rescued from Somali pirates. Watch

Union Minister for External Affairs (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday informed that 10 Indians who were working as a crew on a commercial vessel which was hijacked in Somalia by pirates have been rescued.

Swaraj in a series of tweets announced the development.

&quot;I am happy to inform that 10 Indian nationals working as crew on MV AL Kausar which was hijacked by pirates have been rescued,&quot; Swaraj tweeted.

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I am happy to inform that 10 Indian nationals working as crew on MV AL Kausar which was hijacked by pirates have been rescued. /1
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Swaraj also took the occasion to thank the government of Somalia for their participation.

&quot;We thank Federal Government of Somalia, Galmudug state authorities and people of Somalia for their help and cooperation, she added.

Swaraj lauded India`s High Commissioner in Kenya Suchitra Durai for her successful endeavours in the regard.

&quot;I appreciate Ms.Suchitra Durai, our High Commissioner in Kenya for her good work,&quot; she said.

Pirates stormed the &quot;Al Kausar&quot; ship off the Indian Ocean coast near Yemen on March 31, holding the 10-man crew hostage.

(ANI)

I am happy to inform that 10 Indian nationals working as crew on MV AL Kausar which was hijacked by pirates have been rescued: Sushma Swaraj

Union Minister for External Affairs (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday informed that 10 Indians who were working as a crew on a commercial vessel which was hijacked in Somalia by pirates have been rescued. Swaraj in a series of tweets announced the development. "I am happy to inform that 10 Indian nationals working as crew on MV AL Kausar which was hijacked by pirates have been rescued," Swaraj tweeted. I am happy to inform that 10 Indian nationals working as crew on MV AL Kausar which was hijacked by pirates have been rescued. /1 — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) April 12, 2017 × Swaraj also took the occasion to thank the government of Somalia for their participation. "We thank Federal Government of Somalia, Galmudug state authorities and people of Somalia for their help and cooperation, she added. Swaraj lauded India`s High Commissioner in Kenya Suchitra Durai for her successful endeavours in the regard. "I appreciate Ms.Suchitra Durai, our High Commissioner in Kenya for her good work," she said. Pirates stormed the "Al Kausar" ship off the Indian Ocean coast near Yemen on March 31, holding the 10-man crew hostage. (ANI)

Indians held by pirates in Somalia rescued

The navies of traditional rivals China and India jointly thwarted an attack on a Tuvalu-flagged merchant ship by suspected Somali pirates, India&#39;s defence ministry said on Sunday.

An Indian Navy helicopter undertook aerial reconnaissance of the vessel, while a Chinese Navy ship went on board the vessel, under cover of the Indian Navy helicopter.

The ship, known as OS 35, was reported to be under attack on Saturday. 
 
&quot;An Indian Navy helicopter undertook aerial reconnaissance of the merchant vessel at night, and at sunrise ... (to) ascertain the location of pirates, if still on board,&quot; the defence ministry said in a statement.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;Subsequently ... a boarding party from the nearby Chinese Navy ship went on board the merchant ship, while the Indian Naval helicopter provided air cover for the operation.&quot;

The Indian defence ministry said four of its navy ships in the vicinity responded to a distress signal from the ship and reached the bulk carrier early on Sunday. 
 
It said that the crew had taken refuge in the ship&#39;s strong room, once they learnt they were under attack, a standard shipping operating procedure during times of attack. 
 
All&nbsp;19 Filipino crew of the ship were safe and the captain of the ship thanked the Indian Naval ships for their response and for providing air cover, the defence ministry said.

The ship was sailing under navy escort to its next port,&nbsp;John Steed of aid group Oceans Beyond Piracy told Reuters.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which coordinates shipping in the Gulf of Aden area, said on its website the pirates had used a skiff to approach the vessel. 
 
The hijacking is the latest in a series of attempts by Somali pirates to capture cargo vessels since 2012.

It comes days after pirates seized an Indian dhow that was on route to Bossaso from Dubai.| 
 
It was followed by the hijacking of a Pakistani-owned cargo vessel on April 5.

Last month, pirates had captured a Sri Lankan oil tanker, but later released the crew with no conditions.&nbsp;

A few days later, they caught a large fishing vessel so that they could use it as a floating base to capture even bigger ships.

At their peak in 2011, pirates launched 237 attacks off the coast of Somalia, according to the International Maritime Bureau, and took hundreds of hostages.

Their actions cost the world economy $7 billion and earned the pirates some $160 million in ransoms, according to the bureau. 
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(WION with inputs from Reuters)

Chinese navy ship supported by an Indian navy helicopter thwarted an attack on a Tuvalu-flagged merchant ship

The navies of traditional rivals China and India jointly thwarted an attack on a Tuvalu-flagged merchant ship by suspected Somali pirates, India's defence ministry said on Sunday. An Indian Navy helicopter undertook aerial reconnaissance of the vessel, while a Chinese Navy ship went on board the vessel, under cover of the Indian Navy helicopter. The ship, known as OS 35, was reported to be under attack on Saturday. "An Indian Navy helicopter undertook aerial reconnaissance of the merchant vessel at night, and at sunrise ... (to) ascertain the location of pirates, if still on board," the defence ministry said in a statement. "Subsequently ... a boarding party from the nearby Chinese Navy ship went on board the merchant ship, while the Indian Naval helicopter provided air cover for the operation." The Indian defence ministry said four of its navy ships in the vicinity responded to a distress signal from the ship and reached the bulk carrier early on Sunday. It said that the crew had taken refuge in the ship's strong room, once they learnt they were under attack, a standard shipping operating procedure during times of attack. All 19 Filipino crew of the ship were safe and the captain of the ship thanked the Indian Naval ships for their response and for providing air cover, the defence ministry said. The ship was sailing under navy escort to its next port, John Steed of aid group Oceans Beyond Piracy told Reuters. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which coordinates shipping in the Gulf of Aden area, said on its website the pirates had used a skiff to approach the vessel. The hijacking is the latest in a series of attempts by Somali pirates to capture cargo vessels since 2012. It comes days after pirates seized an Indian dhow that was on route to Bossaso from Dubai.| It was followed by the hijacking of a Pakistani-owned cargo vessel on April 5. Last month, pirates had captured a Sri Lankan oil tanker, but later released the crew with no conditions. A few days later, they caught a large fishing vessel so that they could use it as a floating base to capture even bigger ships. At their peak in 2011, pirates launched 237 attacks off the coast of Somalia, according to the International Maritime Bureau, and took hundreds of hostages. Their actions cost the world economy $7 billion and earned the pirates some $160 million in ransoms, according to the bureau. (WION with inputs from Reuters)

Indian, Chinese navies thwart attack on ship by suspected Somali pirates

Somali pirates are suspected of hijacking a bulk carrier ship, the head of a maritime security company said on Saturday, the latest in a string of attacks after years of calm.

Graeme Gibbon-Brooks, the head of private company Dryad Maritime Intelligence, said industry sources had confirmed the hijacking.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which coordinates shipping in the Gulf of Aden area, said on its website it had received a notification earlier on Saturday from a vessel in an area in the Gulf of Aden that was under attack and may have been boarded.

&quot;Vessels transiting the area are advised to exercise extreme caution,&quot; UKMTO said, without giving more details.

The hijacking comes days after pirates hijacked an Indian dhow that was on route to Bossaso from Dubai.

Somali pirates hijacked an oil tanker in March, the first such seizure of a vessel since 2012, but released it after a clash with the marine force in Puntland.

Shipowners have become less wary of piracy after a long period of calm off the Horn of Africa, experts say, and some have started using a route known as the Socotra Gap, between Somalia and Socotra Island, to save time and costs. The route is considered riskier than others.

(Reuters)

Graeme Gibbon-Brooks, the head of Dryad Maritime Intelligence, said industry sources had confirmed the hijacking

Somali pirates are suspected of hijacking a bulk carrier ship, the head of a maritime security company said on Saturday, the latest in a string of attacks after years of calm. Graeme Gibbon-Brooks, the head of private company Dryad Maritime Intelligence, said industry sources had confirmed the hijacking. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which coordinates shipping in the Gulf of Aden area, said on its website it had received a notification earlier on Saturday from a vessel in an area in the Gulf of Aden that was under attack and may have been boarded. "Vessels transiting the area are advised to exercise extreme caution," UKMTO said, without giving more details. The hijacking comes days after pirates hijacked an Indian dhow that was on route to Bossaso from Dubai. Somali pirates hijacked an oil tanker in March, the first such seizure of a vessel since 2012, but released it after a clash with the marine force in Puntland. Shipowners have become less wary of piracy after a long period of calm off the Horn of Africa, experts say, and some have started using a route known as the Socotra Gap, between Somalia and Socotra Island, to save time and costs. The route is considered riskier than others. (Reuters)

Somali pirates suspected of hijacking bulk carrier ship: Security source

A Pakistani-owned cargo vessel has been hijacked by Somali pirates, a day after an Indian commercial vessel was similarly commandeered by the buccaneers.

This was the fourth ship waylaid by Somali pirates in the last month.

The Pakistani cargo vessel was carrying food when they were captured by the pirates, New York Times reported.

The number of crew on the ship named &#39;MV Salama 1&#39; remains unknown.

Pakistan is yet to confirm the report.

Piracy on the high seas near off Somalia had reached its peak between 2008 and 2012, but had since subsided.

At the peak of the piracy crisis in January 2011, 736 hostages and 32 boats were held.&nbsp;

But analysts believe the resurgence of piracy is owing to the growing influence of Islamic State, corruption, drought and famine.&nbsp;

The latest hijack comes as Somali officials said the Indian ship that was seized last week was in the notorious El Hur area of central Somalia.

The pirates are holding the eleven crew members on the Indian ship for ransom.

The Indian cargo ship was carrying items such as wheat and sugar from Dubai via Yemen to Somalia&#39;s Bossaso port when it came under attack, owner Isaak Them told AFP.

The New York Times also suggested that the recent pirates hail from Puntland in central Somalia, a semi-autonomous region where the government&#39;s powers have been swamped by powerful syndicates.

Last month, the buccaneers had captured a Sri Lankan oil tanker, but later released the crew with no conditions. A few days later, they caught a large fishing vessel so that they could use it as a floating base to capture even bigger ships.

&quot;We have seen a number of attacks over last few weeks which seems to confirm what we have always thought - that the&nbsp;pirates&nbsp;haven&#39;t gone away but have merely been doing other things,&quot; said John Steed -- a former British army officer with Oceans Beyond Piracy, who has spent years negotiating the release of piracy hostages in Somalia.

He attributed the resurgence to a &quot;reduction in precautions taken by shipping companies&quot; such as travelling without armed guards, closer to shore and at slower speeds than recommended.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

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The New York Times report suggested a hijacked Indian ship is being held for ransom in the notorious El Hur area of central Somalia

A Pakistani-owned cargo vessel has been hijacked by Somali pirates, a day after an Indian commercial vessel was similarly commandeered by the buccaneers. This was the fourth ship waylaid by Somali pirates in the last month. The Pakistani cargo vessel was carrying food when they were captured by the pirates, New York Times reported. The number of crew on the ship named 'MV Salama 1' remains unknown. Pakistan is yet to confirm the report. Piracy on the high seas near off Somalia had reached its peak between 2008 and 2012, but had since subsided. At the peak of the piracy crisis in January 2011, 736 hostages and 32 boats were held. But analysts believe the resurgence of piracy is owing to the growing influence of Islamic State, corruption, drought and famine. The latest hijack comes as Somali officials said the Indian ship that was seized last week was in the notorious El Hur area of central Somalia. The pirates are holding the eleven crew members on the Indian ship for ransom. The Indian cargo ship was carrying items such as wheat and sugar from Dubai via Yemen to Somalia's Bossaso port when it came under attack, owner Isaak Them told AFP. The New York Times also suggested that the recent pirates hail from Puntland in central Somalia, a semi-autonomous region where the government's powers have been swamped by powerful syndicates. Last month, the buccaneers had captured a Sri Lankan oil tanker, but later released the crew with no conditions. A few days later, they caught a large fishing vessel so that they could use it as a floating base to capture even bigger ships. "We have seen a number of attacks over last few weeks which seems to confirm what we have always thought - that the pirates haven't gone away but have merely been doing other things," said John Steed -- a former British army officer with Oceans Beyond Piracy, who has spent years negotiating the release of piracy hostages in Somalia. He attributed the resurgence to a "reduction in precautions taken by shipping companies" such as travelling without armed guards, closer to shore and at slower speeds than recommended. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Pakistani vessel becomes 4th ship to be hijacked by Somali pirates in a month: Report

Somali pirates have seized an Indian vessel carrying 11 crew members, the ship&#39;s owner said Monday, the third such hijacking in less than a month as piracy resurges in the country.

The &quot;Al Kausar&quot; cargo ship was carrying items such as wheat and sugar from Dubai via Yemen to Somalia&#39;s Bossaso port when it came under attack, owner Isaak Them told AFP.

&quot;The vessel was hijacked on Friday (March 31) from mid sea. One of the crew members called me on Saturday evening and informed me about the hijacking,&quot; said Them.

&quot;We have asked those who loaded their goods in the vessel in Dubai to make efforts to salvage our crew and the vessel.&quot;&nbsp;

The president of the Kutch Seafarers Association, Adam Them, from the western state of Gujarat where the vessel originated, told AFP that the pirates had already made ransom demands. &nbsp;

&quot;We got a call from one of the crew members today that the pirates have demanded money from the owners of the goods in the vessel,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

&quot;Negotiations are on. The crew member further informed that five gunmen were onboard the vessel ... However, nobody has been hurt.&quot;

Mohamed Samater, a security official from Puntland on the northeastern tip of Somalia, confirmed that a ship had been hijacked.

&quot;We have been informed about another hijack of a ship ...but we don&#39;t have the details yet, the pirates boarded the ship with more than ten crew members on-board,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Piracy resurges | 
 
On March 13, pirates seized the Aris 13 oil tanker and eight Sri Lankan hostages in the first such incident since 2012, but released them four days later.

A week later a local cargo dhow was hijacked and taken out to sea, with the Oceans Beyond Piracy NGO warning it may be used as a &quot;mother ship&quot; for further attacks against larger vessels.

Somali pirates began staging waves of attacks in 2005, seriously disrupting a major international shipping route and costing the global economy billions of dollars.

At the peak of the piracy crisis in January 2011, 736 hostages and 32 boats were held.&nbsp;

Though anti-piracy measures ended attacks on commercial vessels, fishing boats have continued to face attacks.

Oceans Beyond Piracy said the recent attacks showed &quot;that Somali pirates still possess the capability and intent to capture vessels. Additionally tensions in coastal communities about illegal fishing in Somali waters continue to escalate.&quot;

Village elders said last month that the attack on Aris 13 was driven by anger over illegal fishing.

John Steed -- a former British army officer with Oceans Beyond Piracy, who has spent years negotiating the release of piracy hostages in Somalia -- has warned that the presence of foreign vessels emptying Somali waters could reverse the gains against piracy.

He told AFP last month that while the international community had taken steps to boost security, &quot;the one thing that&#39;s not really been addressed is the real root cause of this, which is poverty and the lack of jobs on the ground.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

The vessel is heading towards the Somali shore

Somali pirates have seized an Indian vessel carrying 11 crew members, the ship's owner said Monday, the third such hijacking in less than a month as piracy resurges in the country. The "Al Kausar" cargo ship was carrying items such as wheat and sugar from Dubai via Yemen to Somalia's Bossaso port when it came under attack, owner Isaak Them told AFP. "The vessel was hijacked on Friday (March 31) from mid sea. One of the crew members called me on Saturday evening and informed me about the hijacking," said Them. "We have asked those who loaded their goods in the vessel in Dubai to make efforts to salvage our crew and the vessel." The president of the Kutch Seafarers Association, Adam Them, from the western state of Gujarat where the vessel originated, told AFP that the pirates had already made ransom demands. "We got a call from one of the crew members today that the pirates have demanded money from the owners of the goods in the vessel," he said. "Negotiations are on. The crew member further informed that five gunmen were onboard the vessel ... However, nobody has been hurt." Mohamed Samater, a security official from Puntland on the northeastern tip of Somalia, confirmed that a ship had been hijacked. "We have been informed about another hijack of a ship ...but we don't have the details yet, the pirates boarded the ship with more than ten crew members on-board," he said. Piracy resurges | On March 13, pirates seized the Aris 13 oil tanker and eight Sri Lankan hostages in the first such incident since 2012, but released them four days later. A week later a local cargo dhow was hijacked and taken out to sea, with the Oceans Beyond Piracy NGO warning it may be used as a "mother ship" for further attacks against larger vessels. Somali pirates began staging waves of attacks in 2005, seriously disrupting a major international shipping route and costing the global economy billions of dollars. At the peak of the piracy crisis in January 2011, 736 hostages and 32 boats were held. Though anti-piracy measures ended attacks on commercial vessels, fishing boats have continued to face attacks. Oceans Beyond Piracy said the recent attacks showed "that Somali pirates still possess the capability and intent to capture vessels. Additionally tensions in coastal communities about illegal fishing in Somali waters continue to escalate." Village elders said last month that the attack on Aris 13 was driven by anger over illegal fishing. John Steed -- a former British army officer with Oceans Beyond Piracy, who has spent years negotiating the release of piracy hostages in Somalia -- has warned that the presence of foreign vessels emptying Somali waters could reverse the gains against piracy. He told AFP last month that while the international community had taken steps to boost security, "the one thing that's not really been addressed is the real root cause of this, which is poverty and the lack of jobs on the ground." (AFP)

Somali pirates hijack Indian ship with 11 crew members

Somali pirates released a hijacked oil tanker and its eight Sri Lankan crew on Thursday, a Somali security official and the pirates said, bringing the first hijacking since 2012 to an unusually swift conclusion without the payment of a ransom.

The release followed a gunfight earlier in the day between the pirates and the marine force, and then intensive negotiations between the marine force, clan elders and the pirates.

&quot;There has been discussion going on after the gunfight of this afternoon ... We pulled our forces back and so the pirates went away,&quot; said Abdirahman Mohamud Hassan, the director general of the maritime police force for Somalia&#39;s semi-autonomous northern region of Puntland.

A pirate confirmed the release was made without a ransom payment. In previous hijackings, many crews remained in captivity for years before a ransom was paid. Eight Iranians are still being held.

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<h5>Pirates have traditionally been wary of tangling with Somalia&#39;s powerful businessmen</h5>
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But the pirates said they agreed to forego a ransom after learning that Somali businessmen had hired the ship, which was taking oil from Djibouti to the Somali capital of Mogadishu. Pirates have traditionally been wary of tangling with Somalia&#39;s powerful businessmen.

&quot;After we came to know that the Somali traders hired the oil tanker, we released it without a ransom,&quot; pirate Abdullahi told Reuters.

The release will be seen as a success for the regional Puntland government and its counter-piracy force, which is funded by the United Arab Emirates.

The hijacking was the first time Somali pirates have taken over a commercial ship since 2012 and followed an outpouring of anger by locals over foreign fishermen flooding into their waters. The Somalis are also angry with their government for licensing some of the ships.

The vessel was hijacked on Monday. Residents living near where it was being held said four civilians were injured by stray bullets during Thursday&#39;s gunbattle.

In their heyday in 2011, Somali pirates launched 237 attacks off the coast of Somalia, data from the International Maritime Bureau showed, and held hundreds of hostages.

But attacks fell sharply after crews put safety measures into place and regional naval forces stepped up patrols. Some pirates returned to fishing, and others became involved in smuggling people and weapons across the Red Sea to Yemen.&nbsp;

(Reuters)

The pirates said they agreed to forego a ransom after learning that Somali businessmen had hired the ship

Somali pirates released a hijacked oil tanker and its eight Sri Lankan crew on Thursday, a Somali security official and the pirates said, bringing the first hijacking since 2012 to an unusually swift conclusion without the payment of a ransom. The release followed a gunfight earlier in the day between the pirates and the marine force, and then intensive negotiations between the marine force, clan elders and the pirates. "There has been discussion going on after the gunfight of this afternoon ... We pulled our forces back and so the pirates went away," said Abdirahman Mohamud Hassan, the director general of the maritime police force for Somalia's semi-autonomous northern region of Puntland. A pirate confirmed the release was made without a ransom payment. In previous hijackings, many crews remained in captivity for years before a ransom was paid. Eight Iranians are still being held. Pirates have traditionally been wary of tangling with Somalia's powerful businessmen × But the pirates said they agreed to forego a ransom after learning that Somali businessmen had hired the ship, which was taking oil from Djibouti to the Somali capital of Mogadishu. Pirates have traditionally been wary of tangling with Somalia's powerful businessmen. "After we came to know that the Somali traders hired the oil tanker, we released it without a ransom," pirate Abdullahi told Reuters. The release will be seen as a success for the regional Puntland government and its counter-piracy force, which is funded by the United Arab Emirates. The hijacking was the first time Somali pirates have taken over a commercial ship since 2012 and followed an outpouring of anger by locals over foreign fishermen flooding into their waters. The Somalis are also angry with their government for licensing some of the ships. The vessel was hijacked on Monday. Residents living near where it was being held said four civilians were injured by stray bullets during Thursday's gunbattle. In their heyday in 2011, Somali pirates launched 237 attacks off the coast of Somalia, data from the International Maritime Bureau showed, and held hundreds of hostages. But attacks fell sharply after crews put safety measures into place and regional naval forces stepped up patrols. Some pirates returned to fishing, and others became involved in smuggling people and weapons across the Red Sea to Yemen. (Reuters)

Somali pirates release tanker, 8 Lankan crew without ransom

Pirates have hijacked an oil tanker with eight Sri Lankan crew on board, Somali authorities said on Tuesday, the first time a commercial ship has been seized in the region since 2012.&nbsp; 
 
Security forces have been sent to free the Aris 13, a regional police official said late on Tuesday.&nbsp;

&quot;We are determined to rescue the ship and its crew. Our forces have set off to Alula. It is our duty to rescue ships hijacked by pirates and we shall rescue it,&quot; Abdirahman Mohamud Hassan, director general of Puntland&rsquo;s marine police forces, told Reuters by phone.&nbsp;

Puntland is a semi-autonomous northern region of Somalia. Alula is a port town there where pirates have taken the tanker.

Experts said the ship was an easy target and ship owners were becoming lax after a long period of calm.&nbsp; 
The Aris 13 sent a distress call on Monday, turned off its tracking system and altered course for the Somali port town of Alula, said John Steed of the aid group Oceans Beyond Piracy.&nbsp;

&quot;The ship reported it was being followed by two skiffs yesterday afternoon. Then it disappeared,&quot; said Steed, an expert on piracy who is in contact with naval forces tracking the ship.&nbsp;

Aircraft from regional naval force EU Navfor were flying overhead to track the ship, he said. The force declined to comment.&nbsp;

The pirates brought the ship to the port town of Alula, district commissioner Mohamud Ahmed Eynab told Reuters by phone.&nbsp;

A pirate called Abdullahi told Reuters by telephone: &quot;We are now heading on boats towards our colleagues holding the ship at Alula. We are carrying water, food and weapons for reinforcement.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
The Sri Lankan government said eight Sri Lankan crew were onboard and the ship flew a flag from the Comoros islands.&nbsp;

Data from Reuters systems showed it made a sharp turn just after it passed the Horn of Africa on its voyage from Djibouti to Mogadishu.&nbsp;

The 1,800 deadweight tonne Aris 13 is owned by Panama company Armi Shipping and managed by Aurora Ship Management in the United Arab Emirates, according to the Equasis shipping data website, managed by the French transport ministry.

Mothership 
 
Graeme Gibbon-Brooks, the head of private maritime security company Dryad Maritime Intelligence, said the vessel was an easy target because it was low, slow and close to the coast. 
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Crews were beginning to relax their vigilance after a period of relative security for shipping, he said.&nbsp;

Now that the ship was captured, Somali authorities must ensure it was contained and not used as a mothership, he said, referring to a hijacked vessel used to launch attacks.&nbsp;

&quot;The way that the authorities react now is crucial,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

In their heyday in 2011, Somali pirates launched 237 attacks off the coast of Somalia, data from the International Maritime Bureau showed, and held hundreds of hostages.

That year, Ocean&#39;s&nbsp;Beyond Piracy estimated the global cost of piracy was about $7 billion. The shipping industry bore roughly 80 percent of those costs, the group&#39;s analysis showed.&nbsp; 
 
But attacks fell sharply after ship owners tightened security and vessels stayed further away from the Somali coast.

There had only been four attempted attacks by Somali pirates in the past three years, the bureau said.&nbsp; 
 
Intervention by regional naval forces that flooded into the area helped disrupt several hijack bids and improved security for the strategic trade route that leads through the Suez Canal and links the oilfields of the Middle East with European ports. 
 
Before Tuesday&#39;s&nbsp;hijacking, only one crew remained captive in Somalia. The crew of 17 Iranians was taken two years ago, but four are believed to have died, four were rescued and one escaped, Steed said, so only eight remained.&nbsp;

&quot;They&#39;re&nbsp;from Baluchistan in Iran,&quot; he said, referring to a violent and restive eastern province. &quot;No one really cares about them.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
(Reuters) 
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If confirmed, Monday's incident would be the first hijack of a commercial ship by Somali pirates since 2012

Pirates have hijacked an oil tanker with eight Sri Lankan crew on board, Somali authorities said on Tuesday, the first time a commercial ship has been seized in the region since 2012. Security forces have been sent to free the Aris 13, a regional police official said late on Tuesday. "We are determined to rescue the ship and its crew. Our forces have set off to Alula. It is our duty to rescue ships hijacked by pirates and we shall rescue it," Abdirahman Mohamud Hassan, director general of Puntland’s marine police forces, told Reuters by phone. Puntland is a semi-autonomous northern region of Somalia. Alula is a port town there where pirates have taken the tanker. Experts said the ship was an easy target and ship owners were becoming lax after a long period of calm. The Aris 13 sent a distress call on Monday, turned off its tracking system and altered course for the Somali port town of Alula, said John Steed of the aid group Oceans Beyond Piracy. "The ship reported it was being followed by two skiffs yesterday afternoon. Then it disappeared," said Steed, an expert on piracy who is in contact with naval forces tracking the ship. Aircraft from regional naval force EU Navfor were flying overhead to track the ship, he said. The force declined to comment. The pirates brought the ship to the port town of Alula, district commissioner Mohamud Ahmed Eynab told Reuters by phone. A pirate called Abdullahi told Reuters by telephone: "We are now heading on boats towards our colleagues holding the ship at Alula. We are carrying water, food and weapons for reinforcement." The Sri Lankan government said eight Sri Lankan crew were onboard and the ship flew a flag from the Comoros islands. Data from Reuters systems showed it made a sharp turn just after it passed the Horn of Africa on its voyage from Djibouti to Mogadishu. The 1,800 deadweight tonne Aris 13 is owned by Panama company Armi Shipping and managed by Aurora Ship Management in the United Arab Emirates, according to the Equasis shipping data website, managed by the French transport ministry. Mothership Graeme Gibbon-Brooks, the head of private maritime security company Dryad Maritime Intelligence, said the vessel was an easy target because it was low, slow and close to the coast. Crews were beginning to relax their vigilance after a period of relative security for shipping, he said. Now that the ship was captured, Somali authorities must ensure it was contained and not used as a mothership, he said, referring to a hijacked vessel used to launch attacks. "The way that the authorities react now is crucial," he said. In their heyday in 2011, Somali pirates launched 237 attacks off the coast of Somalia, data from the International Maritime Bureau showed, and held hundreds of hostages. That year, Ocean's Beyond Piracy estimated the global cost of piracy was about $7 billion. The shipping industry bore roughly 80 percent of those costs, the group's analysis showed. But attacks fell sharply after ship owners tightened security and vessels stayed further away from the Somali coast. There had only been four attempted attacks by Somali pirates in the past three years, the bureau said. Intervention by regional naval forces that flooded into the area helped disrupt several hijack bids and improved security for the strategic trade route that leads through the Suez Canal and links the oilfields of the Middle East with European ports. Before Tuesday's hijacking, only one crew remained captive in Somalia. The crew of 17 Iranians was taken two years ago, but four are believed to have died, four were rescued and one escaped, Steed said, so only eight remained. "They're from Baluchistan in Iran," he said, referring to a violent and restive eastern province. "No one really cares about them." (Reuters)

Somali pirates hijack first commercial ship since 2012

Somali pirates on Saturday freed 26 Asian sailors which were held captive for nearly five years, negotiators said. The mediators said the crew was released after 18 months of negotiations with community, tribal and religious leaders.&nbsp;

The hostages were kept in a small fishing village after they were hijacked off their vessel, the last commercial vessel to be seized at the height of the country&#39;s piracy scourge.&nbsp;

The crew of the Naham 3 are the second longest held hostage by Somali pirates.&nbsp;

&quot;We are very pleased to announce the release of the Naham 3 crew early this morning,&quot; said John Steed, coordinator of the Hostage Support Partners (HSP) who helped negotiate their release. The crew did not reveal if any ransom was paid to free them.&nbsp;

But Steed, who led the mission to save the hostages, said one obstacle still remained before the crew could return to their families. &quot;There is fighting in Galkayo so it is very dangerous at the moment, they are exchanging artillery tonight. We will go in early tomorrow morning if the fighting stops and bring them back to Nairobi for medicals and a clean-up.&quot;

Once extracted, the sailors - from China, the Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Taiwan - will be flown to the Kenyan capital on Saturday.&nbsp;

The sailors were taken into captivity after their Omani-flagged vessel was seized in March 2012 south of the Seychelles. Of the 29 taken hostage, one person died during the hijacking and two more &quot;succumbed to illness&quot; during their captivity. &nbsp;

&quot;The release of the Naham 3 crew represents the end of captivity for the last remaining seafarers taken hostage during the height of Somali piracy,&quot; Steed said.

A major threat to international shipping, piracy was at its peak in 2011 and 2012. It prompted interventions by the United Nations, European Union and NATO, while commercial vessels hired private armed guards aboard their vessels.

In 2012, Somali piracy cost the global economy between $5.7 and $6.1 billion and at the peak in January 2011, Somali pirates held 736 hostages and 32 boats.

(WION with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The crew was held hostage by pirates in a small fishing village since their vessel was hijacked in the Indian Ocean in 2012

Somali pirates on Saturday freed 26 Asian sailors which were held captive for nearly five years, negotiators said. The mediators said the crew was released after 18 months of negotiations with community, tribal and religious leaders. The hostages were kept in a small fishing village after they were hijacked off their vessel, the last commercial vessel to be seized at the height of the country's piracy scourge. The crew of the Naham 3 are the second longest held hostage by Somali pirates. "We are very pleased to announce the release of the Naham 3 crew early this morning," said John Steed, coordinator of the Hostage Support Partners (HSP) who helped negotiate their release. The crew did not reveal if any ransom was paid to free them. But Steed, who led the mission to save the hostages, said one obstacle still remained before the crew could return to their families. "There is fighting in Galkayo so it is very dangerous at the moment, they are exchanging artillery tonight. We will go in early tomorrow morning if the fighting stops and bring them back to Nairobi for medicals and a clean-up." Once extracted, the sailors - from China, the Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Taiwan - will be flown to the Kenyan capital on Saturday. The sailors were taken into captivity after their Omani-flagged vessel was seized in March 2012 south of the Seychelles. Of the 29 taken hostage, one person died during the hijacking and two more "succumbed to illness" during their captivity. "The release of the Naham 3 crew represents the end of captivity for the last remaining seafarers taken hostage during the height of Somali piracy," Steed said. A major threat to international shipping, piracy was at its peak in 2011 and 2012. It prompted interventions by the United Nations, European Union and NATO, while commercial vessels hired private armed guards aboard their vessels. In 2012, Somali piracy cost the global economy between $5.7 and $6.1 billion and at the peak in January 2011, Somali pirates held 736 hostages and 32 boats. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Somali pirates free 26 Asian hostages after nearly 5 years in captivity

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