Three Indian Sailors Killed After Tanker Strike Near Oman, Government Assures Support to Families
Three Indian seafarers who were reported missing after a military strike on an oil tanker off the coast of Oman have been confirmed dead, bringing heartbreak to their families and India’s maritime community.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal expressed grief over the loss, stating that the bodies of the three sailors have been recovered and identified. The deceased have been identified as deck cadet Aditya Sharma, engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya, and chief engineer Patnala Suresh.
The Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Settebello, carrying a crew of 28 members including 24 Indians, came under attack in the Gulf of Oman. While 21 Indian crew members were rescued safely, the three sailors were initially listed as missing before their deaths were confirmed.
Calling the incident a “profound loss,” Sonowal said the government stands firmly with the bereaved families and has directed officials to ensure the immediate return of the rescued crew members as well as the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites.
According to reports, the US military carried out the strike, alleging that the vessel was transporting Iranian oil and had failed to comply with instructions issued by American forces. The attack disabled the tanker in the Gulf of Oman.
India has strongly condemned the incident and lodged a formal protest, expressing concern over the safety of Indian nationals caught in the escalating tensions in the region. Officials have also called for de-escalation, warning that continued conflict threatens international shipping routes and the lives of civilian seafarers.
Investigations and diplomatic discussions are ongoing as authorities work to support the affected crew and their families.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
