Indian sailor dies following torpedo strike on commercial vessel
Tragic news emerged Wednesday after an Indian seafarer died when two torpedoes struck the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao near Oman. Officials from the Indian Embassy in Muscat confirmed the fatality as the ship was navigating towards India. Diplomatic representatives are currently coordinating with Omani authorities and the local RPSL agency to secure the safety of the remaining crew members. Maritime routes around the Strait of Hormuz have experienced heightened risks for civilian merchant vessels navigating global trade corridors recently.
Details of torpedo strike and victim identity
Representatives from the Forward Seamen's Union of India quickly identified the deceased sailor as Suraj Yadav. He worked as a wiper on the vessel and belonged to Deoria in Uttar Pradesh. Union officials stated that two torpedoes hit the commercial ship in a targeted assault. One projectile violently impacted the port side of the C-deck accommodation area. Another struck the port side hull close to the engine room, causing significant damage. Union leaders demanded immediate accountability to protect civilian workers navigating these high-risk waters.
Diplomatic response and ongoing crew coordination
Diplomatic officials initially reported that 19 Indian nationals were aboard the vessel during the incident. However, union representatives noted there were 28 crew members in total, stating 20 of them were Indians. The Indian mission in Muscat expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family of Suraj Yadav. Embassy staff remain in direct contact with the victim's relatives. They are actively monitoring the developing situation to ensure safe passage and immediate justice for the surviving seafarers currently stranded near the Hormuz region.
Image Courtesy: FSUI on 'X'
