London: Britain's navy today confirmed that it had captured 13 suspected pirates off the coast of Somalia in a NATO-led operation with US forces.
Royal Marines boarded a dhow and captured the 13 men on board after they failed to heed warnings issued by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) vessel Fort Victoria and the USS Carney.
Victoria deployed a Lynx helicopter with Royal Marine snipers who provided further warnings to the suspects, but the dhow refused to stop.
Marines launched from the Victoria in speedboats and captured the craft, discovering a cache of weapons on board.
Defence Secretary Philip Hammond called the operation a "clear demonstration of Britain's ability to tackle piracy that threatens our interests."
Separately, 15 Georgian sailors released by Somali pirates after more than a year in captivity returned home yesterday to an emotional welcome from their families.
Royal Marines boarded a dhow and captured the 13 men on board after they failed to heed warnings issued by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) vessel Fort Victoria and the USS Carney.
Victoria deployed a Lynx helicopter with Royal Marine snipers who provided further warnings to the suspects, but the dhow refused to stop.
Defence Secretary Philip Hammond called the operation a "clear demonstration of Britain's ability to tackle piracy that threatens our interests."
Advertisement
Advertisement
COMMENTS
Advertisement
India To Prosecute 35 Somali Pirates Responsible For Hijacking Ship Resolved To Reinforce Peace, Stability In Indian Ocean Region: Navy Ships, Drones, Commandos: How Indian Navy Rescued Hijacked Vessel Life On Earth Originates From One Ancestor, Older Than Previously Believed Omar Abdullah On What Should Be J&K Assembly's 1st Move After Polls Cops Probing Conspiracy Angle Into Kolkata Hospital Vandalism: 5 Points Maharashtra NEET UG Counselling 2024 Registration Starts, Details Here Special App, Safe Zones: Bengal's Night Shift Measures For Women After D Cops Probing Conspiracy Angle Into Kolkata Hospital Vandalism: 5 Points Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.