New Delhi: Twenty-four Indian crew members aboard a merchant tanker came through unharmed after a missile attack off the coast of Oman, thanks to a coordinated rescue operation involving the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai and Omani authorities.
The incident involved the Palau-flagged tanker MT Marivex, which was anchored near Masirah, Oman, when it reportedly came under attack. Following the emergency, rescue agencies moved quickly to establish contact and ensure the safety of those onboard.
According to officials, MRCC Mumbai received information about the incident at around 2:20 pm on June 8 after a relative of one of the crew members alerted authorities. The centre immediately coordinated with its counterparts in Oman to verify the situation and initiate rescue measures.
A few hours later, at approximately 5 pm, the Oman Maritime Security Centre confirmed that all 24 Indian nationals had been successfully evacuated from the vessel. Helicopters deployed by the Royal Oman Navy carried out the rescue operation, bringing the crew members to safety.
Authorities stated that no fatalities or injuries were reported during the incident, providing relief to the families of the sailors and maritime officials monitoring the situation.
The successful evacuation highlights the close operational cooperation between Indian and Omani maritime agencies in responding to emergencies in the region. Officials praised the prompt exchange of information and rapid deployment of rescue resources, which helped prevent any loss of life.
The circumstances surrounding the missile strike and the identity of those responsible remain under investigation. Maritime authorities are expected to continue assessing the incident while monitoring security conditions in the surrounding waters.
The rescue has been welcomed as an example of effective international coordination, ensuring the safe return of Indian seafarers despite a potentially dangerous situation at sea.
