MEA condemns attack on MV Cape Dao as 19 Indian crew members are rescued and repatriation efforts begin
An Indian seafarer was killed after the merchant vessel MV Cape Dao came under attack off the east coast of Oman while sailing towards India, prompting New Delhi to call for an immediate end to attacks on commercial shipping and civilian seafarers.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said 20 Indian seafarers were aboard the vessel when the incident occurred. Nineteen were rescued, while one Indian national died in the attack. The Indian Embassy in Muscat is coordinating with Omani authorities to ensure the safety of the rescued crew and facilitate their early repatriation.
The deceased has been identified as Suraj Yadav, a 23-year-old seafarer from Deoria in Uttar Pradesh. According to officials, he suffered head injuries after the vessel was struck and later succumbed to his injuries.
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The vessel, an Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier, was carrying 28 crew members in total
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Omani authorities said a fire broke out following the attack and an Omani warship assisted in evacuating those on board
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Reports have said the vessel was struck by projectiles, although responsibility for the attack has not been established
The Indian Embassy in Muscat said it was in close contact with Omani authorities and the relevant recruitment and placement agency, while also maintaining communication with the family of the deceased.
The MEA described the continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region as deeply concerning. It reiterated India’s call for dialogue and diplomacy to reduce tensions and restore peace.
India also stressed that commercial vessels, seafarers and civilian infrastructure should not be targeted, and called for free and uninterrupted navigation and trade through international waterways in the region.
The incident comes amid heightened security concerns affecting merchant shipping around the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, where Indian seafarers have been involved in several recent incidents.
