New Delhi, May 27 -- The Indian Navy has successfully thwarted a piracy attempt near a merchant vessel in the Western Indian Ocean, reinforcing its role as a key security provider in the region.

According to the Indian Navy, warship INS Kolkata responded swiftly to inputs regarding suspected pirate activity in the vicinity of merchant vessel MV Mashallah 1. Acting promptly on the information, the naval ship undertook immediate measures to investigate the threat and deter any hostile action.

The timely intervention by INS Kolkata ensured the safety and security of the merchant vessel and its crew, preventing what could have developed into a piracy attack.

In a statement posted on social media, the Navy said the operation underscored its c...