New Delhi

The Indian Navy successfully responded to a distress alert from merchant vessel MV Fareeda 5 after a suspected piracy incident in the Western Indian Ocean, ensuring the safety of the ship and its crew through a swift operational response.

According to the Navy, the incident occurred on June 17, when the vessel reported a possible piracy threat. Acting immediately, the Navy deployed INS Trikand, a frontline stealth frigate operating in the region, to investigate the situation and prevent any hostile action.

In an official statement, the Navy said the warship promptly reached the area, assessed the threat and took deterrent measures that helped secure the merchant vessel. The intervention ensured that the ship continued its voyage without incident.

Reaffirming its role as a key maritime security provider in the Indian Ocean Region, the Navy stated that it remains committed to protecting commercial shipping lanes, countering piracy and maintaining the safety of international sea routes.

The operation is part of India's broader maritime security efforts in piracy-prone waters stretching from the Gulf of Aden to the Western Indian Ocean.

The latest action follows a similar operation carried out on May 27, when INS Kolkata thwarted a suspected piracy attempt near merchant vessel MV Mashallah 1. During that mission, the warship deployed its onboard helicopter and boarding teams to investigate suspicious activity and prevent a potential attack.

The Indian Navy has maintained a continuous anti-piracy presence in the Gulf of Aden and adjoining waters since 2008. Through regular patrols, surveillance missions and rapid-response deployments, it has played a significant role in securing one of the world’s busiest maritime trade corridors.

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Officials said such operations underscore India's commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and safeguarding global maritime commerce in the region.