Pakistan Navy rescues 18 crew after distress call in Arabian Sea

KARACHI/ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy said on Friday it rescued and evacuated 18 crew members, including foreign nationals, from a merchant vessel in the Arabian Sea after it issued a distress call.

In a statement, the Navy said the operation was carried out in the North Arabian Sea, around 200 nautical miles (approximately 370 kilometres) off Pakistan’s coast, involving the MV Gold Autumn.

It said the rescued crew included nationals of China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam and Indonesia.

According to the statement, the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) activated emergency protocols after receiving the distress alert.

Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) *Hunain*, which was patrolling in the area, was immediately directed to assist the vessel and launched a search and rescue operation.

“The Pakistan Navy Ship actively undertook the search and rescue operation, demonstrating professionalism and operational expertise,” the statement said.

The naval team provided medical assistance, firefighting support and damage assessment of the vessel before evacuating all 18 crew members.

The rescued personnel were later transported to Karachi for medical care and subsequent repatriation to their respective countries, it added.

The statement said the operation reflected the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to serving as a first responder in maritime emergencies within its area of responsibility.