New Delhi: In a written reply to Lok Sabha, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt disclosed that seven incidents of vessel hijacking on high seas by pirates have been reported in the last three years. Notably, one hijacking incident involved the Merchant Vessel – Lila Norfolk on January 4-5, 2024, with 21 crew members, including 15 Indian nationals on board.
Two additional hijacking incidents took place, concerning Fishing Vessels – IMAN (January 28, 2024), and AI Naeemi (January 29, 2024), though no Indian crew members were on board during these occurrences.
The Indian Navy has been actively engaging with regional and extra-regional navies and maritime forces to promote maritime security. Since 2008, the Indian Navy has deployed units in the Gulf of Aden and the East Coast of Africa for anti-piracy patrols. Over this period, 3,440 ships and more than 25,000 seafarers have been safely escorted, showcasing the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding maritime interests.
To restore maritime security, the Indian Navy has increased its presence of ships, conducted aerial surveillance using maritime patrol aircraft and remotely piloted aircraft in the Central Arabian Sea and off the East Coast of Somalia. Information sharing with national and international maritime security agencies has been emphasized, ensuring a coordinated and early response to potential threats. Effective liaison and coordination with DG (Shipping) have been maintained for obtaining inputs on Indian crew onboard merchant vessels in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden regions.
Furthermore, the Indian Navy actively interrogates fishing vessels and dhows operating in the region to bolster maritime security. Notably, no piracy incidents have been reported in the Palk Strait.
The proactive measures taken by the Indian Navy underscore its commitment to ensuring the safety of maritime activities and combating piracy in the region.