In response to reports of the hijacking of the ship MV LILA NORFOLK off the coast of Somalia, the Indian Navy's warship INS Chennai has launched an operation to closely monitor the situation. The hijacked vessel, flying the Liberian flag, is reported to have 15 Indian crew members on board.
Officials from the Indian Army stated, "The Indian Navy is closely monitoring the hijacked ship 'MV LILA NORFOLK' and received information last evening about the hijacking of the vessel. There are 15 Indians on board the ship with the Liberian flag, which was hijacked off the coast of Somalia. The Indian Navy aircraft is constantly monitoring the ship. In addition, communication has also been established with the employees. Also, INS Chennai, a warship of the Indian Navy, is moving towards the hijacked ship to deal with the smuggling situation."
Reacting swiftly, Indian naval bases are on high alert following the attempted hijacking with a Liberian flag in the Arabian Sea. The hijacked ship sent a distress message on the UKMTO (United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations) portal, indicating the presence of around five to six armed individuals on board. The Indian Navy has mobilized the warship INS Chennai, engaged in maritime security operations, to approach the hijacked vessel.
In the early hours of the following day, an Indian Navy aircraft flew over the hijacked ship, establishing contact with the vessel and ensuring the safety of the crew. Continuous monitoring of the situation is underway, with close coordination among various agencies and multinational naval forces in the region. The Indian Navy, collaborating with international partners and allies, is resolute in ensuring the safety and security of commercial shipping in the affected area.
However, there are suspicions that the hijacking might be the work of pirates, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing situation. Authorities are working diligently to manage the crisis and secure the release of the ship and its crew from the hijackers.