KARACHI: The Pakistan Navy conducted a rescue operation in the Arabian Sea, saving 18 crew members, including foreign nationals, from a merchant vessel after receiving a distress call, according to a statement issued by the PN on Friday.
“In a swift humanitarian operation, Pakistan Navy successfully rescued and evacuated 18 crew members including nationals of China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam and Indonesia, following a distress call from Merchant Vessel (MV) GOLD AUTUMN, operating in North Arabian Sea at 200 Nautical Miles (Approx 370 km) off Pakistan’s coast,” the statement said.
PMSA activated MRCC & PN tasked PNS HUNAIN, which provided medical aid, firefighting support and damage assessment. The crew was shifted to Karachi by PNS HUNAIN for medical care and repatriation, reflecting PN’s commitment as a responsible maritime force & first responder. 2/2 pic.twitter.com/Oud7cx9LvY
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) April 10, 2026
It added upon receiving emergency alert, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) activated its Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) and promptly initiated response protocols.
“Accordingly, Pakistan Navy Ship HUNAIN, patrolling in assigned area, was immediately tasked to provide assistance to MV GOLD AUTUMN,” said the statement.
The statement further added PNS HUNAIN actively undertook Search and Rescue operation demonstrating professionalism and operational expertise. Pakistan Navy Ship’s team, comprising of specialists, provided medical assistance, supported in firefighting, conducted damage assessment of the vessel and later rescued crew members.
“The evacuated crew members have been safely transported to Karachi for further medical care and subsequent repatriation to respective countries,” it said.
“Humanitarian assistance rendered by Pakistan Navy Ship at extended ranges off Pakistan’s coast reflects Pakistan Navy’s continued resolve and commitment for always being the first responder to maritime crisis situations in respective Area of Responsibility,” it said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commends Pakistan Navy
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has commended the Pakistan Navy for successfully rescuing 18 crew members.
In a statement, he lauded the professionalism, swift response and humanitarian spirit demonstrated by the officers and personnel of the Pakistan Navy.
The Prime Minister said that following a distress call from the merchant vessel Gold Autumn, the Pakistan Navy ship PNS Hunain promptly launched a search and rescue operation. He noted that the swift response led to the safe evacuation of crew members from several countries, including China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
Shehbaz Sharif added that all rescued individuals have been taken to Karachi, where they are receiving medical treatment, while arrangements are underway for their safe repatriation to their home countries. He further stated that the Pakistan Navy will continue to serve as a first responder in maritime emergencies within its area of responsibility.
