As per the Indian Embassy in Oman, 11 Indian crew members were safely evacuated from the Indian flagged mechanised sailing vessel Virat 1 following an engine failure near the coast of Oman. Efforts are underway to rescue the remaining three crew members. The rescued individuals have been taken onboard by MV Jabal Ali 9.
The Embassy stated that the rescue operation, which is being closely coordinated, has successfully saved 11 out of the 14 crew members of MSC Virat 1. The operation is ongoing, with the remaining crew members expected to be rescued soon. Earlier, the Embassy had reported the engine failure of the Indian flagged vessel and the ongoing rescue efforts.
The Indian Embassy in Oman revealed that the crew of the Virat 1 faced an engine failure, leading them to transfer safely to a liferaft. The rescue operation is currently in progress with the assistance of nearby ships under the coordination of Omani authorities. Recent incidents have seen commercial vessels with Indian crew members being targeted off the coast of Oman.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed strong disapproval of the attacks by US naval forces on commercial vessels carrying Indian seafarers in the Gulf of Oman. The MEA emphasized that such actions are unacceptable and endanger the safety and stability of international maritime commerce in a critical region. The MEA urged the US Charge d’Affaires to convey India’s concerns to US authorities and ensure the prevention of further civilian casualties.
