Pirates opened fire on an Italian-owned oil tanker in the Indian Ocean on Tuesday and took control of the ship, the Italian Navy said.   

The attack on the Savina Caylyn took place some 500 miles off the coast of India and some 800 miles off the coast of Somalia, a spokesman said, adding that no-one was reported hurt in the attack.   

He said it was believed that at least five pirates took part in the attack, which took place at about 0625 GMT. The crew was made up of 17 Indians and five Italians.

An Italian navy frigate was heading to the scene but was some 600 miles away.

The ship is carrying a load of crude and was destined for Pasir Gudang port in Malaysia. - Reuters