Indian navy warship comes to aid…
The Indian Navy is monitoring a developing hijack situation of a ship that appears to now be heading to the coastline of Somalia.
The Indian warship responded to a call from the cargo carrier MV Ruen, a Maltese vessel in the Arabian Sea.
An Indian Naval Maritime Patrol Aircraft and warship on Anti Piracy patrol has been immediately diverted.
"The vessel, with 18 crew onboard, had sent a Mayday message on UKMTO portal, PM 14 Dec 23, indicating boarding by approx six unknown personnel.
Responding to the situation, the Indian Navy diverted its Naval Maritime Patrol aircraft undertaking surveillance in the area and its warship on Anti Piracy patrol in the Gulf Aden to locate & assist MV Ruen," the Indian Navy said in a statement.
A Navy warship has intercepted the hijacked vessel and is closely monitoring its movement.
"The Indian Navy remains committed to being a first responder in the region and ensuring the safety of merchant shipping, along with international partners and friendly foreign countries," the statement said.
#IndianNavy's Mission Deployed platforms respond to #hijacking in the #ArabianSea#MayDay msg from Malta Flagged Vessel MV Ruen on @UK_MTO portal - boarding by unknown personnel
Indian Naval Maritime Patrol Aircraft & warship on #AntiPiracy patrol immediately diverted@EUNAVFORpic.twitter.com/mtXqjytSfF
The ship, MV Reun, was heading towards Somalia when it was attacked on Thursday. UK's Marine Trade Operations said that the crew had lost control of the vessel.
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