Indian Naval Destroyer INS Kochi responded to a maritime security incident after an attack on a merchant vessel by Houthi rebels.
The incident involved an attack on Panama-flagged crude oil tanker Merchant Vessel (MV) Andromeda Star PM on 26 April, in the Red Sea.
The Indian Navy confirmed on Sunday that all 22 Indian nationals aboard the merchant vessel are safe, thanks to the prompt deployment of the Indian Mission in the area.
Upon intercepting the MV, the Navy ship conducted an aerial reconnaissance using helicopters to assess the situation. An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was subsequently dispatched onboard the MV to conduct a residual risk assessment.
With a total of 30 crew members, including the 22 Indian nationals, reported safe, the vessel is now continuing its scheduled transit to its next port.
The swift action of the Navy ship reiterates the commitment and resolve of the Indian Navy in safeguarding the seafarers plying through the region, an official stated.
According to international reports, the attack on the Andromeda Star was claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels. After the attack, Houthi rebels had stated that the missiles targeted the tanker as part of their ongoing support for Palestinians.
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