In a swift operation, the Indian Navy successfully thwarted an attempted hijack of the Liberian-flagged MV Lila Norfolk bulk carrier in the Arabian Sea. Responding promptly to a report received by the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency, an Indian Navy warship intercepted the vessel approximately 460 nautical miles off Somalia less than a day after the incident.
Around five to six armed individuals had boarded the vessel on Thursday, compelling the ship’s crew to take refuge in the ship’s citadel, as reported by UKMTO. All 21 crew members, including 15 Indians, were safely evacuated, and a naval warship is now assisting in restoring power to enable the vessel to resume its intended voyage.
The MV Lila Norfolk, bound for Khalifa bin Salman in Bahrain, had its destination disclosed by British maritime security firm Ambrey. However, the cargo it carried remained undisclosed. The Indian Navy, in a statement, mentioned that the attempted hijacking by the pirates was likely thwarted with a forceful warning by the Indian Navy, supported by marine patrol aircraft, emphasizing the interception by an Indian Naval warship.