NEW DELHI: In a swift response to a maritime crisis, the Indian Navy's warship and aircraft have stepped in to assist a Malta-flagged commercial vessel, MV Ruen, that fell victim to a hijacking incident in the Arabian Sea. Confirming the situation, the Navy revealed that the vessel, carrying 18 crew members, is currently en route to the Somalia coast.

Officials disclosed that the hijacking attempt was reported on Thursday, prompting an immediate deployment of Indian Navy assets to the affected area by early Friday. A naval aircraft conducted a reconnaissance flight over MV Ruen on the morning of December 15, vigilantly monitoring the vessel's movements since.

An Indian Navy spokesperson stated that maritime patrol aircraft, engaged in surveillance operations within the region, along with a warship actively conducting anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden, were swiftly mobilized upon receiving distress signals from the hijacked vessel.

"The Indian Navy's warship, designated for anti-piracy duties in the Gulf of Aden, successfully intercepted the MV Ruen on Saturday morning," the spokesperson confirmed.

Ongoing efforts involve close monitoring of the situation, with coordinated actions in collaboration with other agencies in the vicinity. Emphasizing the Navy's commitment to prompt and efficient response measures, the spokesperson highlighted the priority placed on safeguarding merchant shipping, in conjunction with international partners and allied nations, reaffirming the commitment to ensuring their safety.

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