Somali police and international naval forces are gearing up for an operation to rescue the Bangladesh commercial ship “MV Abdullah,” which was hijacked by pirates last week, according to the Puntland region's police force. This comes in the wake of Indian commandos successfully rescuing another cargo vessel, the Maltese-flagged MV Ruen, held by pirates, and freeing its 17 crew members while apprehending 35 pirates.

The MV Abdullah fell prey to pirates off the coast of Somalia, marking the latest in a series of more than 20 attacks by Somali pirates since November, following nearly a decade of dormancy. The semi-autonomous region of Puntland, known as a base for numerous pirate groups, has heightened security measures and stands ready to participate in the joint operation against the hijackers.

"Puntland police forces are ready after they got reports that international navies are planning an attack," stated the Puntland police force in a release.

While India's navy, which has thwarted several hijacking attempts previously, has not yet commented on the situation, efforts are underway to coordinate a response. Additionally, Puntland police announced the seizure of a vehicle transporting the narcotic khat, intended for supply to the pirates aboard the Abdullah.

At the peak of their activities in 2011, Somali pirates caused significant economic losses estimated at $7 billion globally, including substantial ransom payments. The ongoing threat of piracy underscores the need for coordinated efforts to combat maritime piracy in the region.