New Delhi, 02 July (H.S.): The Indian Navy foiled a piracy attempt in the Gulf of Aden after suspected pirates fled upon the approach of the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Trikand, ensuring the safety of the crew and preventing any damage to the vessel. The merchant ship, MV Golden Arsenal, was carrying cargo considered critical for India and had one Indian national among its crew members.

According to the Indian Navy, MV Golden Arsenal came under attack by suspected pirates while transiting the Gulf of Aden. The attackers attempted to seize control of the vessel, prompting the crew to activate anti-piracy emergency procedures. The crew secured themselves inside the ship's designated safe room (citadel) and transmitted a distress alert through established maritime communication channels, reporting the attempted act of piracy.

Upon receiving the distress call, INS Trikand, which was deployed in the vicinity as part of ongoing maritime security operations, immediately altered course and proceeded at high speed towards the merchant vessel. The rapid response by the Indian warship forced the suspected pirates to abandon their attempt and flee before they could take control of the ship. As a result, the crew remained unharmed and the vessel sustained no damage.

The crew of MV Golden Arsenal included one Indian national, all of whom were confirmed safe following the incident.

After the suspected pirates fled, the Indian Navy deployed its elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS) onto the merchant vessel. The commandos carried out a comprehensive search of the ship to ensure that no pirates remained concealed onboard and that there was no residual threat.

Following the detailed search, the MARCOS team declared the vessel secure after sanitising the entire ship, allowing it to continue its voyage safely with its crew and cargo intact.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar