INS Savitri returns after anti piracy patrols off Mauritius, Seychelles

New Delhi, Jan 7 (ANI): Country's offshore patrol Vessel INS Savitri returned on Wednesday after deployment of over a month in the waters of Mauritius and Seychelles for Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance and anti-piracy patrols.

Based on formal requests from the Mauritian Government, the Indian Navy deployed INS Savitri with a Chetak helicopter and Marine Commandos, for EEZ Surveillance of Mauritius starting from early December 2009.

Deployment of INS Ships to Mauritius and Seychelles reflect India's firm commitment and continued engagement in the Indian Ocean Region for the overall safety and security of international maritime commerce.

The ship effectively sanitised far-flung sea areas of the Mauritian EEZ, beyond the reach of Mauritian surveillance assets.

During the deployment the ship also operated closer to Mauritius in coordination with the ships and aircraft of the Mauritian National Coast Guard.

The ship also utilized the opportunity to impart quality sea training to Marine Commandos of the Mauritian Coast Guard for undertaking Boarding Operation at sea and acquainted two helicopter pilots of the Mauritian Police Helicopter Squadron in deck landing on board the ship at sea.

In the same spirit 'Savitri' also completed a similar EEZ surveillance operation for the Government of the Republic of Seychelles.

The Indian Navy has increased its efforts for presence-cum-surveillance in the areas of expanding piracy and has been actively lending support to other nations by deploying suitable ships and aircraft for such missions but especially in the EEZ of friendly nation's viz. Seychelles, Mauritius and Maldives.

The visit of INS Savitri to Mauritius and Seychelles is yet another manifestation of the comprehensive cooperation between the Government of India and the Governments of Republic of Mauritius and Seychelles. (ANI)