Surrender on the High Seas: Indian Navy's Triumph Over Somalian Pirates

 

Somalian Pirates Surrender to Indian Navy

Indian Navy's 40-Hour Operation

Introduction

In 2024, Somali pirates seized an oil tanker named Aris, and in April 2019, they captured 23 fishermen on a small vessel. In response, the Indian Navy launched Operation Sankalp in June 2019 to protect Indian vessels and enhance maritime security in the Gulf of Oman and Persian Gulf.

First Success

In January 2024, the Indian Navy rescued 19 Pakistani fishermen from a hijacked Iranian fishing vessel.

M.V. Roun Hijacking

In December 2023, Somali pirates hijacked the M.V. Roun, a Bulgarian merchant vessel carrying 17 crew members and $1 million worth of metal cargo. The pirates demanded a ransom of $60 million.

European and Somali Involvement

The European Union Naval Force and Somali authorities attempted to monitor the situation but were unsuccessful.

Indian Navy Intervention

On December 15, 2023, an Indian Navy aircraft established contact with the crew of M.V. Roun. The Indian Navy took over the operation and began extensive surveillance.

Confrontation with Pirates

In March 2024, as the M.V. Roun approached Somalia, the Indian Navy's INS Kolkata was ordered to intercept it. On March 15, a drone deployed by INS Kolkata detected 35 armed Somali pirates on board.

Negotiations and Surrender

After the pirates fired at the drone, the Indian Navy demanded their surrender. The pirates initially refused and fired on INS Kolkata. In response, the Indian Air Force sent two assault boats and eight MARCOS commandos to neutralize the pirate threat. After a 40-hour negotiation, the pirates surrendered on March 19, 2024.

Significance

This was the first time in 10 years that such a large number of Somali pirates were captured. The operation demonstrated the capabilities and professionalism of the Indian Navy.

Legal Proceedings

The 35 pirates were brought to Mumbai and face legal proceedings in India.

Impact on Maritime Safety

The Indian Navy's efforts have contributed to a decline in piracy in the region and reinforce its commitment to protecting Indian vessels and enhancing maritime security.

Sources : Indian Navy’s 40-hour operation | Pirates shot down Navy’s drone, Marine Commandos airdropped

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