In a swift response to a mayday alert, the Indian Navy has successfully intervened to rescue the commercial Malta ship, MV Ruen, reportedly hijacked in the Arabian Sea. The vessel, with 18 crew members onboard, had sent distress signals indicating unauthorized boarding.
The Navy directed its warship on Anti-Piracy patrol in the Gulf Aden to assist MV Ruen upon receiving the alert. A Naval Maritime Patrol aircraft was also deployed for surveillance in the area. The hijacked ship is currently being closely monitored by the Navy’s warship, as it heads towards the coast of Somalia.
The UK’s Marine Trade Operations reported that the crew had lost control of the vessel during the attack. This incident marks a significant piracy event, potentially the first major attack by Somali pirates since 2019, following concerted counter-piracy efforts.
Ships in the vicinity are advised to remain on high alert, as a piracy action group is active in the area. The UK Marine body recommends caution and encourages reporting of any suspicious activity by vessels transiting through the Arabian Sea near Somalia.
