The Special Court in Mumbai, established under the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act of 2022, has convicted all 35 Somali nationals involved in the hijacking of the Maltese-flagged vessel MV Ruen. This landmark ruling, announced on July 20, 2026, marks the first successful prosecution under the relevant law, which aligns with India’s commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.

Special Public Prosecutor Advocate Ranjeet V. Sangle led the prosecution in this case, securing a complete conviction rate. This achievement continues Sangle’s notable track record in handling piracy cases in Indian courts, an accomplishment recognised as unprecedented on a global scale.

The 35 individuals were formally transferred to the Yellow Gate Police Station in Mumbai following their apprehension. The prosecution levelled multiple charges against them, citing violations not only under the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act but also the Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and other relevant laws.

Details of the Hijacking Incident

The incident took place on December 14, 2023, when the MV Ruen was hijacked by six armed assailants at sea. Upon receiving news of the hijacking, the Indian Navy deployed its Maritime Patrol Aircraft to establish communication with the crew, who had sought refuge in the ship’s citadel.

Subsequently, INS Kochi was redirected to the Gulf of Aden to offer assistance. Two days later, on December 16, it intercepted the vessel, discovering that the citadel had been compromised and that 18 crew members were being held hostage, with one individual sustaining injuries during the incident.

In a coordinated effort, the Indian Navy executed a medical evacuation for the injured crew member through Oman before the vessel entered Somali territorial waters.

Rescue Operation and Subsequent Developments

Approximately three months later, on March 15, 2024, the Indian Navy located the vessel under pirate control about 260 nautical miles east of Somalia. The guided-missile destroyer INS Kolkata confirmed the presence of pirates onboard using a ship-launched drone. However, the pirates retaliated by shooting down the drone and firing at the INS Kolkata.

The response from INS Kolkata involved disabling the vessel’s steering and navigational systems, and INS Subhadra was dispatched to reinforce the operation. Marine Commandos (MARCOS) were air-dropped into the area, with continuous surveillance provided by HALE Remotely Piloted Aircraft and a P8I long-range reconnaissance aircraft.

On the afternoon of March 16, 2024, all 35 pirates surrendered without further resistance. The Indian Navy successfully evacuated all 17 remaining crew members safely, and the vessel, which carried cargo valued at approximately $1 million, was sanitised and escorted back to India. This operation, conducted 1,400 nautical miles from the Indian mainland, is noted as one of the Indian Navy’s most complex long-range maritime interdiction missions.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share