Responding to a distress call, the Sri Lanka Navy has successfully rescued the crew of the Merchant Vessel (MV) Integrity Star.

The main engines of the vessel malfunctioned approximately 100 nautical miles south of Sri Lanka, and the crew were in a desperate situation. The rescued crew of the vessel was brought to the Port of Hambantota yesterday (26).

“Upon receiving the distress alert, the Navy, under the directives of the Ministry of Defence, swiftly deployed the SLNS Samudura for a search and rescue mission, with the mediation of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo. The search and rescue operation by the Navy resulted in the safe recovery of all crew members (14), who are nationals of India, Turkey and Azerbaijan,” a statement by the Navy read, adding that MV Morning Glory, another vessel in the vicinity, was also prepared to assist the distressed vessel demonstrating effective international cooperation in maritime emergency response.

The Navy further said: “The Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre in Colombo, operating from Navy Headquarters, leads Sri Lanka’s efforts to safeguard life at sea. Upholding the nation’s commitment to international maritime conventions, the centre coordinates rescue missions not only within Sri Lanka’s search and rescue region, but also in neighboring international waters, offering vital aid to the maritime and fishing communities in distress.”