New Delhi: All 24 Indian crew members of Palau-flagged tanker MT Marivex have been rescued after a fire broke out on the vessel after an incident in Oman’s search-and-rescue region (SRR) which led to a coordinated emergency response by Omani authorities, Indian Coast Guard and Indian diplomatic missions.
In a statement posted on social media, the Indian Coast Guard said the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai swiftly coordinated with Oman’s Maritime Security Centre after receiving information about the emergency. The rescue operation was carried out by Oman Navy helicopters, which safely evacuated all 24 Indian sailors from the tanker.
“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,” the Coast Guard said.
According to Indian shipping authorities, the incident was reported at around 1.30 pm local time when a fire erupted aboard the tanker. Officials said the vessel, which was not carrying any cargo, was operating south of the Strait of Hormuz when the emergency occurred.
Crew members alleged in an SOS message that the vessel had been struck by a missile fired by the US Navy, though authorities have not independently confirmed the claim.
The Indian Embassy in Muscat confirmed that all crew members had been rescued and thanked Omani authorities for their assistance. The shipping ministry said it remained in close coordination with the ministry of external affairs, the Indian Navy, and Omani authorities throughout the operation.
Meanwhile, the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) stated that it is maintaining direct contact with the crew and relevant authorities. In its latest update, the union said repatriation efforts are currently underway and that the majority of the crew members have been reported safe based on information received from the sailors.
The incident comes amid heightened maritime tensions in West Asia and concerns over the safety of commercial shipping operating near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.
The Indian Coast Guard said international cooperation with friendly foreign countries remains a key pillar of its efforts to ensure prompt search and rescue operations and safeguard Indian nationals across the Indian Ocean Region.