New Delhi/UNI: The Indian Navy evacuated all 21 crew members including 15 Indians onboard the cargo vessel MV Lila Norfolk in the North Arabian Sea on Friday.

According to the Indian Navy, "Sanitisation by MARCOs has confirmed the absence of the hijackers."

It further said, "The attempt at hijacking by the pirates was probably abandoned with the forceful warning by the Indian Navy MPA of interception by Indian Naval warships."

However, INS Chennai is in the vicinity of MV and is rendering support to restore power generation and propulsion and commence her voyage to the next port of call, the Indian Navy said.

Earlier in the day, the Indian Navy foiled an attempt to hijack a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier by approximately five to six unknown Armed men.

After receiving a message from the vessel, the Indian Navy launched a Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) and diverted INS Chennai to assist the vessel.