Rescued crew members from five countries, repatriated to their respective countries after medical attention
The Pakistan Navy on Friday rescued 18 crew members of a merchant ship after receiving a distress call in the North Arabian Sea.
According to a statement issued by the Navy: “In a swift humanitarian operation, the Pakistan Navy successfully rescued and evacuated 18 crew members, including nationals of China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam and Indonesia, following a distress call from the Merchant Vessel (MV) Gold Autumn, operating in the North Arabian Sea at 200 nautical miles approximately 370 km from Pakistan.”
The statement said that upon receiving the distress alert, the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) activated its Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) and immediately initiated response protocols.
Pakistan Navy conducted a successful Search & Rescue operation in the North Arabian Sea and rescued 18 crew members of MV GOLD AUTUMN following a distress call. Nationals from China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam and Indonesia were safely rescued. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/shFIESB8qX
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) 10 April 2026
“Accordingly, Pakistan Navy ship Hunain patrolling in the assigned area was immediately tasked to provide assistance to MV Gold Autumn,” it added.
It further said PNS Hunain undertook the search and rescue operation, demonstrating “professionalism and operational excellence”.
“Pakistan Navy Ship’s team, consisting of specialists, provided medical assistance, assisted in firefighting, carried out damage assessment of the vessel and later rescued crew members,” the statement said, adding that the evacuated crew members were safely transported to Karachi for further medical attention and subsequent repatriation to their respective countries.
Read: PN evacuates an ailing Sri Lankan at sea
According to the statement, “humanitarian assistance provided by Pakistan Navy Ship at extended ranges off the coast of Pakistan reflects Pakistan Navy’s continued determination and commitment to always be the first responder to maritime crises in the respective area of responsibility.”
The statement noted that this was not the first such operation by the Navy. Earlier this year, it successfully carried out the medical evacuation of a Sri Lankan national on the high seas, approximately 1,500 km off the coast of Pakistan.
In 2024, the Navy conducted another humanitarian operation by rescuing nine Indian sailors at sea, 167 nautical miles southeast of Karachi, despite strained relations between the two countries.
The Pakistan Navy not only rescued the Indian sailors but also provided them with technical assistance, medical facilities, fresh water and prepared meals for the tired crew of the tugboat.
