New Delhi: The mortal remains of two Indian seafarers who lost their lives in last week’s attack on the merchant vessel MT Settebello off the coast of Oman were brought back to India on Wednesday, officials confirmed.
The deceased sailors, identified as Aditya Sharma and Shivanand Chaurasiya, were among three Indian crew members killed when the Palau-flagged vessel came under attack in waters near Oman. The Indian Embassy in Muscat announced that the repatriation process for the two sailors had been completed and extended condolences to their families.
However, no official update was immediately available regarding the return of the third deceased crew member, Patnala Suresh, whose body is yet to be repatriated. The Indian mission said it continues to remain in touch with all concerned authorities and stakeholders.
The development follows the safe return of 21 Indian crew members who were rescued after the incident. The survivors had been brought back to India earlier this week after being evacuated by Omani authorities.
The MT Settebello tragedy triggered diplomatic concern in New Delhi after three Indian sailors were confirmed dead following the strike. The vessel, carrying 24 Indian crew members, was operating near the Oman coast when the attack occurred. While most crew members were rescued, the deaths drew strong reactions from the Indian government and maritime community.
In the aftermath of the incident, India formally conveyed its concerns to the United States and called for greater protection of civilian maritime personnel operating in conflict-prone regions. The government also stressed the need to ensure the safety of international shipping routes and merchant sailors.
The incident has renewed attention on the risks faced by commercial seafarers working in strategically sensitive waters. Following the deaths, Indian shipping authorities issued fresh advisories aimed at enhancing the safety of Indian maritime workers and limiting deployment to high-risk conflict zones.
As families mourn the loss of the sailors, efforts continue to complete all formalities related to the remaining deceased crew member and provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy.
