24 Indian crew rescued after missile attack on oil tanker near Oman
24 Indian seafarers were safely rescued after a missile attack triggered a fire aboard the Palau-flagged oil tanker Marivex off the coast of Oman, thanks to swift coordination between the Indian Coast Guard and Omani authorities.
According to the Indian Coast Guard, the incident occurred on Monday when the vessel reported a fire while sailing through Oman's Search and Rescue Region (SRR). The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai immediately established contact with Omani rescue agencies to facilitate an emergency evacuation.
Visuals released after the operation showed Omani Navy helicopters hovering over the damaged vessel and airlifting crew members from the tanker’s deck to safety.
In a statement, the Coast Guard said, “Swift response by MRCC Mumbai following missile attack on MT Marivex in Oman SRR. On receiving information, MRCC Mumbai immediately coordinated with OMSC Oman, ensuring the safe rescue of 24 Indian crew by Oman Navy helicopters.”
Maritime traffic data indicated that the tanker was travelling from Karwar in Karnataka to Duqm in Oman when it came under attack.
Shipping Ministry Director Opesh Kumar Sharma confirmed that all Indian crew members aboard the vessel were safe following the rescue operation.
The incident highlights growing concerns over maritime security in regional waters and underscores the importance of international cooperation in emergency response operations.
Officials noted that the Directorate General of Shipping has facilitated the safe repatriation of 3,506 Indian seafarers so far, including 32 sailors rescued during various maritime emergencies in the last 96 hours.
The Indian Coast Guard reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Indian citizens at sea and strengthening collaboration with friendly nations across the Indo-Pacific region for effective search-and-rescue missions.
The cause and circumstances surrounding the reported missile attack are being closely monitored by maritime authorities.