Lieutenant Commander Sourabh Malik became one of the bravehearts to deservingly be conferred with the Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) for his unflinching strike on the hijacked Iranian vessel – FV Omari last year as President Droupadi Murmu accorded gallantry awards to 93 Army personnel on the eve of Republic Day on Saturday.
On February 2, 2024, Lieutenant Commander Malik and his team succeeded in Op-Sankalp by capturing seven armed pirates onboard FV Omari and rescuing 19 fishermen. The team recovered arms, ammunition, and other piracy enablers as part of the operation.
Of the 19 people rescued, 11 were Iranian fisherfolk and the remaining eight were Pakistani nationals.
Having a potential hostage situation, Lieutenant Commander Malik assembled the team and displayed relentless courage in going ahead with the mission, albeit being short-staffed, as there was a lack of back up for cover fire.
Throughout the mission, he led the team under constant threat of fire from armed pirates and by being the first person to embark on the boat, he emulated bravery.
Dishing out his tactical innovativeness and quick decision-making heroics, the officer led the team to catch the pirates off guard.
The pirates then surrendered.
The officer also led a comprehensive search of the vessel for IEDs, contrabands, arms, and ammunitions. The success of the mission can be largely attributed to professionalism, courage, and leadership of the Prahar Commander.
In recognition of the daringness displayed by him, Lt Commander Sourabh Malik has been awarded the Nao Sena Medal.