Indian Navy rescues all 20 crew members of pirated fishing vessel Azini in 48-hour op in Arabian Sea

The Indian Navy rescued all 20 crew members aboard the pirated fishing vessel Azini following a carefully coordinated 48-hour operation in the Arabian Sea, more than 3,000 km from Mumbai, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said.

The mission was successfully conducted on November 2, with the Navy tracking down and intercepting the vessel before ensuring the safe release of all crew members from heavily armed pirates.

Congratulating the Navy on the successful operation, Singh said the mission reflected the force’s high level of operational preparedness and its ability to respond decisively to maritime security threats across the region.

In a post on X, Singh said: "My congratulations to #Indian Navy for successfully executing a meticulously coordinated 48-hour operation to rescue all 20 crew members of the pirated fishing vessel, Azini, more than 3000 km from Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, on 02 Nov 26.”

"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 added.

He also commended the personnel involved in the mission, noting that their efforts had once again demonstrated India’s capability and determination to protect lives and maintain 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.

Reaffirming India’s commitment to maritime safety, Singh said the country would continue its efforts to ensure secure sea routes and a free, open and stable Indian Ocean Region.

"India continues to stand resolute in ensuring SAFE SEAS and a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region," he added.

The operation also underscored the effective coordination between the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force in tackling maritime security threats far beyond India’s coastline.

With IANS inputs...