0
0
The current state of maritime security is increasingly precarious, with numerous regions facing threats that jeopardize the safety of cargo ships and their crew. The Houthis have been targeting cargo ships in the Red Sea with missile attacks, while Ukraine and Russia have engaged in military conflict in the heavily mined Black Sea. Disputes between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea further contribute to the volatile situation at sea.
Amidst these challenges, the resurgence of Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean poses a significant concern. Recently, the Indian navy vessel INS Kolkata performed a daring rescue operation for the Bulgarian ship MV Ruen, which had been hijacked by pirates on December 14, 2023. The operation, lasting an impressive 40 hours, involved Kolkata intercepting the hijacked Ship Ruen with the assistance of the navy ship Subhadra, drones, P8I maritime patrol aircraft, and Marine Commandos air-dropped by a C-17 aircraft.
A recent report by Reuters shared the harrowing experience of the crew of a Bangladeshi-owned bulk carrier, the Abdullah, in the western Indian Ocean. Following a distress signal and failed attempts to seek help, the crew found themselves at the mercy of Somali pirates. The pirates boarded the vessel, taking the captain and second officer hostage, although no physical harm was inflicted during the incident.
Since November, records indicate more than 20 attempted hijackings in the region, with Somali gangs exploiting the chaos caused by Houthi activities. The strategic location of the waterways off Somalia, serving as crucial shipping lanes for an estimated 20,000 vessels annually, underscores the gravity of the situation. These vessels transport various goods between Europe and Asia, emphasizing the importance of maintaining security in these vital maritime routes.
Image/Photo credit: source url
