Indian Navy Boosts Security After MV Chem Pluto Attack.
In response to the recent drone attack on the India-bound merchant vessel MV Chem Pluto, the Indian Navy has taken decisive steps to bolster maritime security in the Indian Ocean region. On Tuesday, the Navy announced an increase in warship presence and air surveillance to safeguard merchant marines operating in the area.
The Navy's official release stated, "In light of the recent maritime incidents in the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy has commenced focused maritime security operations in the region. The presence of Indian Navy warships and air surveillance in the region has been enhanced. Actions are being progressed in coordination with national maritime agencies towards ensuring the safety of merchant marine in the region."
Regarding the specific incident involving MV Chem Pluto, the Indian Navy conducted an on-scene examination and gathered crew inputs about the attack. The analysis by the Indian Navy team strongly suggests a drone attack. The explosive charge on the drone detonated, causing extensive damage above the waterline. Remnants of projectiles have been collected for further forensic analysis in collaboration with other agencies.
India's Navy Chief, Admiral R Hari Kumar, was briefed on the initial analysis conducted by the Indian Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team, along with the follow-up actions being undertaken.
MV Chem Pluto Reaches Mumbai Safely
After the harrowing incident, MV Chem Pluto, flying the Liberian flag, was safely escorted to Mumbai on Monday. The Indian Navy's explosive ordnance disposal team conducted a detailed inspection of the vessel, which had 21 Indian crew members on board. The attack occurred on December 23, raising concerns about the safety of maritime traffic in the region.
The attack on MV Chem Pluto is part of a broader context, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea in response to Israel's airstrikes against Hamas militants in Gaza. The United States has accused Iran-backed forces of being responsible for the attack on MV Chem Pluto, a claim vehemently denied by Iran.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed deep concern about the incident, stating, "India takes the attack on MV Chem Pluto very seriously. Whoever carried out this attack, we will find them even from the depth of the sea and take strict action against them." The statement was made during the commissioning ceremony of 'INS Imphal' in Mumbai on Tuesday, underscoring India's commitment to ensuring the security of its maritime interests.
