A wave of relief and gratitude spread across the United States after 15 Indian crew members were rescued from a hijacked ship off the coast of Somalia. The ordeal ended on a high note and the rescued sailors not only returned home safely but also filled with pride for the Indian Navy.
A video shared by the Indian Navy shows the rescued crew members crying tears of joy and chanting „Bharat Mata Ki Jai“ (Victory for Mother India).
The Navy’s elite Marcos unit carried out a swift and decisive operation to subdue the pirates and secure the release of the hostages.
Expressing gratitude and relief, one of the sailors rescued by the Navy said they had been stranded for 24 hours, but the situation had improved with the Indian Navy’s successful rescue. Another sailor said he was „proud of the Indian Navy“ and stressed the importance of timely rescue operations off the coast of Somalia.
In response to a distress call about a hijacked cargo ship carrying 21 crew members, including 15 Indian nationals, the Indian Navy quickly launched a comprehensive operation. The Navy used warships, maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters, and the Predator MQ9B drone to thoroughly disinfect the ship’s interior. Elite special forces Marcos ensured that there were no hijackers on board and ensured the safety of the crew.
All 21 crew members of the MV Rilla Norfolk were successfully rescued and are now safe. The Indian Navy is actively investigating suspicious vessels in the vicinity. Crews are currently concentrating on repairing propulsion, power and steering gear. After these repairs, the ship will resume sailing to her destination under the escort of Indian Navy warships.