MOGADISHU (SD) -The Indian Navy warship INS Sumitra successfully intercepted pirates who had hijacked a fishing vessel off the coast of Somalia.

According to Indian military officials, 17 crew members of an Iranian-flagged boat were rescued from the pirates.

Indian Navy officials stated that the pirates were apprehended, and prevented harm to the crew.

The Indian Navy further mentioned that their ships were directed to the Indian Ocean region to combat piracy and ensure the safety of maritime activities.

This incident marks another successful operation by the Indian Navy in thwarting pirate activities off the coast of Somalia.

On January 5, INS Chennai managed to rescue the crew of a ship off the coast of Somalia and rescued all 15 Indians on board.