Pirates reportedly seized two commercial vessels in separate incidents, with Indian nationals among those taken hostage.
WEB DESK: Two commercial vessels were reportedly hijacked in separate incidents near Yemen and Somalia, with 22 Indian nationals among those reportedly taken hostage, according to reports.
The incidents have renewed concerns about maritime security in waters surrounding the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, where commercial shipping has faced security threats from piracy and armed groups.
Ships reportedly seized in separate incidents
According to the report, one vessel was hijacked off the coast of Yemen while another incident occurred near Somalia.
The reported attacks involved commercial vessels carrying multinational crews, with Indian nationals among those affected.
Details about the identity of the vessels, the precise locations of the incidents and the status of the crew members remain subject to confirmation from maritime authorities.
Indian authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely and coordinate with international agencies involved in maritime security and rescue operations.
Maritime security concerns remain
The waters around Somalia have historically been associated with piracy, although international naval patrols and coordinated security measures significantly reduced attacks over the past decade.
More recently, however, the wider region has faced renewed maritime security challenges, particularly around the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Commercial shipping operators have increasingly assessed risks associated with piracy, armed attacks and regional military tensions when planning routes through the area.
India monitoring situation
India has maintained a significant naval presence in the western Indian Ocean and has previously deployed its forces to protect commercial shipping and assist vessels facing maritime threats.
The reported abductions could add pressure on regional and international authorities to strengthen protection for commercial vessels and their crews.
Further information about the condition and whereabouts of the reported abducted Indian nationals is expected as authorities investigate the incidents.
