The News Freedom
New Delhi, January 5
The Indian naval warship INS Chennai has arrived at the harbor where the hijacked vessel MV Lila Norfolk is stationed, off the coast of Somalia. Reports suggest that the Navy has deployed its helicopter and issued a stern warning to the pirates aboard, urging them to abandon the hijacked vessel. Media sources confirm that the Indian crew aboard the vessel is safe, and the elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS) are fully prepared for potential operations.
Indian Navy’s Mission deployed platforms responded swiftly to a maritime incident in Arabian Sea involving a hijacking attempt onboard Liberia Flagged bulk carrier. The vessel had sent a message on UKMTO portal indicating boarding by approximately five to six unknown armed personnel in the evening on January 4, Indian Navy spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said.
Responding swiftly to the developing situation, Indian Navy launched a Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) and has diverted INS Chennai deployed for Maritime Security Operations to assist the vessel. The aircraft overflew the vessel on early morning and established contact with the vessel, ascertaining the safety of the crew, he further said.
Naval aircraft continues to monitor movement and INS Chennai is closing the vessel to render assistance. The overall situation is being closely monitored, in coordination with other agencies and MNF in the area. The Indian Navy remains committed to ensuring safety of merchant shipping in the region along with international partners and friendly foreign countries
In addition to it, the media report quoting the UKMTO said the crew had locked themselves in a strong room. Also, the vessel’s navigation lights are running low increasing the risk of collision with other vessels.