Navy deploys missile destroyer to evacuate Indians from Yemen

Amid war-like conditions in Aden, the Navy today pressed into action INS Mumbai, a guided-missile destroyer, to evacuate the second batch of Indians from the port city of Yemen.

The warship placed itself just outside Aden harbour as part of 'Operation Raahat' as heavy firing was reported in Aden where the Saudi-led coalition is fighting Houthi rebels who are making a bid for the city.

Indian authorities have hired small crafts which are being used to move 30-35 Indians at one time from the port to INS Mumbai, the Navy said.

While the exact number of Indians stranded there is not known, defence sources put it over 200.

"Absolute tough environment at Aden... Evacuation of stranded Indians being carried out in almost war-like conditions by Indian Naval ship Mumbai," the Navy said.