NEW DELHI: A Malaysian-flagged sailing vessel in distress in the Indian Ocean was able to resume its voyage with the help of the Indian Navy.
The incident occurred after the sailing vessel, transiting 225 nautical miles west of Indira Point, sought fuelling assistance from the Indian Navy on Jan 4.
According to the Press Trust of India, the Indian Navy said the vessel, carrying five Chinese nationals, requested help.
"Responding swiftly, a surveillance aircraft was deployed to monitor the movement of the sailing vessel, and a mission-deployed Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kirch was diverted to assist," the Navy said.
"On Jan 7, INS Kirch intercepted the vessel and provided 1,000 litres of fuel, enabling the vessel to resume its voyage to its next port of call safely."
The Indian Navy said it was committed to ensuring the safety of all mariners in the Indian Ocean.