The vessel sent a message on the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations portal indicating that it was boarded by five to six unknown armed people on Thursday evening, the Indian Navy said in a statement.

The Indian Navy diverted INS Chennai, and deployed for maritime security operations to assist the vessel, the statement said.

The Indian Navy has increased its surveillance of the Arabian Sea after a recent spate of attacks in the region. The hijacking of commercial ships and attempted hijackings by suspected pirates near the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea regions resumed in December after a six-year lull.

Data from the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region shows at least three hijackings in December. The previous such incident was reported in 2017, according to Reuters.

Ambrey, a maritime intelligence firm, said the bulk carrier started to drift 670 kilometres east of Hafun, Somalia, and said its crew included 15 Indian nationals.

A patrol aircraft overflew the vessel early on Friday, established contact with the crew and ascertained that they were safe, the Navy said.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the hijack attempt. There have been growing concerns about shipping in the region following attacks by Yemeni Houthi rebels.

(With agency inputs)

Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it’s all here, just a click away