Key facts
- One Indian national was killed in an attack on the MV Cape Dao.
- The vessel was heading towards India when it was attacked.
- The Indian Embassy in Oman is coordinating with Omani authorities on crew safety.
- Oman's Maritime Security Center evacuated 27 crew members.
- India's Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack and called for an end to targeting commercial shipping.
One Indian national was killed in an attack on the bulk carrier MV Cape Dao while the vessel was transiting towards India, the Indian Embassy in Oman said on Wednesday. The embassy stated it was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities regarding the safety of all crew members on board, including 19 Indian nationals.
Oman's Maritime Security Center reported that it conducted an evacuation operation for the vessel's crew following the attack off the Musandam governorate. A total of 27 crew members were evacuated. The center did not disclose the nationality of the deceased crew member.
India's Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack, stating that of the 20 Indian seafarers on board, 19 were rescued and one tragically lost their life. The ministry offered condolences to the family and thanked Omani authorities for their support. It also expressed deep concern over continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region and called for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and restore free navigation.
The Forward Seamen's Union of India identified the deceased as Suraj Yadav, a wiper from Deoria in Uttar Pradesh. The union stated that the vessel was hit by two torpedoes, one striking the accommodation area and another the engine room, and called for accountability and safe passage for seafarers.