An Indian seafarer was killed after an Indian vessel carrying 14 crew members was struck by an unidentified aerial object off the coast of Oman.
According to Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who confirmed the incident, the Indian MSV AL JUSUFI was struck while “navigating near the coast of Oman.”
The Omani coast guard evacuated and rescued the 13 other crew members.
The deceased man was identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat. He succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack.
Sonowl said the ministry and the Indian Embassy in Oman are in contact with local authorities to ensure immediate assistance for the 13 survivors.
They are working on the swift repatriation of both the surviving crew and the mortal remains of the deceased.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this hour of immense grief. The Ministry and the Indian Embassy in Oman are in contact with local authorities to ensure immediate assistance for the 13 survivors and facilitate the swift repatriation of both the surviving crew and the mortal remains of our deceased seafarer,” the minister said.
Attacks on Indian ships have been a rare occurrence in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.
In May an Indian flagged ship sunk off the coast of Oman after being attacked.
At least 22 Indian seafarer ave been killed in the war between US Israel and Iran since February 28.
