Maltese ship facing threat from pirates, Navy rushed for help

Amidst reports of a Maltese bulk carrier facing threat from pirates 200 nautical miles west of Lakshadweep Islands early today, Indian Navy rushed its ship "INS Sujatha" for assistance.

The Maltese ship 'M V Melina I' was on passage from Ukraine to Paradip in Orissa when it was learnt to have encountered the pirates, a Navy release said here.

The Southern Naval Command here said INS Sujatha has on board an armed helicopter and Marine Commandos (MARCOS) to
effectively deal with any "emergent situation".

Indian Coast Guard Vessel 'CGS Annie Basant' and a dornier aircraft have also been dispatched to render assistance, it said.