Operation Nistar: Indian Navy Rescues 38 Indians From Cyclone-Hit Socotra Island In Yemen

The Indian Navy yesterday (3 June) rescued 38 Indians who were stranded at the Socotra Island off the coast of Yemen since the last ten days, Financial Express has reported.

The sailors were stuck at the island after a severe cyclonic storm, Mekenu, hit the area on 24 May and damaged/sunk three Indian dhows while one was still missing. The 12 Indians on-board the missing vessel still haven’t been found.

“Three Indian dhows (vessel) at Socotra suffered damages/sank alongside in the harbour and another Dhow, MSV Safina Al Khijar with 12 Indians onboard is reported to be missing,” a spokesperson for the Navy said.

The 38 Indians were rescued by INS Sunayana that was diverted by the Navy from the Gulf of Aden for the operation.

“The operation, code-named ‘NISTAR’, was carried out on the morning of June 3 off the coast of Socotra. The evacuated Indians were embarked on board and immediately provided with medical care, food, water and telephone facilities to call and reassure their families at home,” the Navy spokesperson said.

INS Sunayana is heading towards Porbandar port in Gujarat now.