Mumbai special court sentences 44 Somali pirates to life imprisonment, praises Indian Navy
On July 20, 2026, a special court in Mumbai sentenced 44 Somali nationals to life imprisonment in two separate piracy cases. The court praised the Indian Navy for its bravery and prompt action. In the first case, nine Somalians were arrested in March 2024 after hijacking the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Kambar, holding crew hostage for ransom, and opening fire on Indian warships INS Trishul and Sumedha. In the second case, 35 Somalians were apprehended in December 2023 by INS Kolkata after hijacking the Malta-flagged bulk carrier MV Ex-Ruen. All accused pleaded guilty but were denied leniency due to the serious nature of the crimes, which included hijacking, hostage-taking, and use of deadly weapons. They were convicted under multiple laws including the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
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