Key Points
- Crew included nationals from five countries, all safely repatriated after rescue
- Fire onboard vessel controlled by naval team before evacuation
- Rescue conducted 200 nautical miles offshore, showcasing long-range response capability
KARACHI: The Pakistan Navy successfully rescued 18 crew members, including several foreign nationals, after a merchant vessel issued a distress call in the North Arabian Sea, according to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Friday.
The rescue operation was carried out by naval ship PNS Hunain after it received an emergency signal from the merchant vessel Gold Autumn, which was operating approximately 200 nautical miles — around 370 kilometres — off Pakistan’s coastline.
Responding swiftly, the naval vessel reached the troubled ship and launched a full-scale search and rescue mission. A specialised team onboard provided immediate medical assistance to the crew, while also helping to control a fire that had broken out on the vessel. The team further conducted a detailed damage assessment to stabilise the situation.
All 18 crew members — including nationals from China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam and Indonesia — were safely evacuated from the vessel. They were subsequently transported to Karachi, where they are receiving medical care and arrangements are being made for their repatriation to their respective countries.
The ISPR highlighted that the operation demonstrated the Pakistan Navy’s readiness and capability to respond effectively to maritime emergencies, even at extended distances from the shore. It reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding lives at sea and acting as a first responder in crisis situations within its area of responsibility.
The humanitarian mission comes amid heightened regional maritime concerns. Last month, the Pakistan Navy initiated Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to ensure the security of national shipping routes and maintain the uninterrupted flow of critical maritime trade and energy supplies.
Beyond its defensive role, the Pakistan Navy continues to play a vital part in humanitarian efforts at sea, regularly extending assistance to vessels and crews in distress, regardless of nationality.
