Somali pirates’ attempt to seize ships is thwarted by the Indian Navy

Officials said on Saturday that the Indian Navy has intercepted a Somali pirate vessel in the open seas off the east coast of Somalia, thwarting their effort.

They reported that the pirates had set off aboard a ship that had been taken over around three months before.

“The ex-MV Ruen, which had been hijacked by Somali pirates on 14 December, was reported to have sailed out as a pirate ship towards conducting acts of piracy on high seas,” the Navy said.

On March 15, a warship of the Indian Navy reportedly intercepted the vessel.

According to the Navy, the warship fired back at the vessel, which acted in accordance with international law to defend itself and combat piracy by using the least amount of force required to eliminate the danger posed by the pirates to ships and seafarers.

“The pirates onboard the vessel have been called upon to surrender and release the vessel and any civilians they may be holding against their will,” the Navy said in a statement.

“The Indian Navy remains committed to maritime security and safety of seafarers in the region,” it said.