Indian Seafarer Killed After Ship Hit by Torpedoes off Oman Coast

NEW DELHI, September 24, 2026: An Indian seafarer was killed and 19 others rescued after the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao came under attack off the east coast of Oman while sailing towards India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

The deceased was identified as Suraj Yadav, a wiper from Deoria in Uttar Pradesh.

“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao earlier today off the east coast of Oman,” the MEA said in a statement. Of the 20 Indian seafarers aboard, 19 were rescued, while Yadav “tragically lost his life”.

The ministry expressed condolences to Yadav’s family and said the Indian Embassy in Oman was coordinating with Omani authorities to facilitate the early repatriation of the rescued seafarers.

The embassy is also monitoring developments and working with local authorities following the attack. The MEA thanked Oman for its assistance in the rescue operation.

Vessel reportedly struck by two torpedoes

The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) said the vessel was struck by two torpedoes.

According to the union, one torpedo hit the port side of the C-deck, where crew accommodation is located, while the second struck the port side of the hull near the engine room.

FSUI identified Yadav as the crew member who died and said the incident underscored the risks faced by civilian seafarers operating in the region. The union called for accountability and stronger measures to ensure the safety of seafarers.

Discrepancy in reported crew figures

There are differing accounts regarding the vessel’s total crew strength.

FSUI said MV Cape Dao had 28 crew members, including 20 Indians. The MEA, meanwhile, confirmed that 20 Indian seafarers were aboard, with one killed and 19 rescued.

The available statements therefore provide different details about the vessel’s overall crew composition, although they agree that one Indian seafarer died and 19 Indian seafarers were rescued.

India calls for safe navigation

The attack has renewed concerns over the safety of civilian shipping in the region amid continuing threats to commercial vessels.

The MEA described attacks on commercial shipping as “deeply worrisome” and reiterated India’s call for dialogue and diplomacy to reduce regional tensions.

The ministry said commercial vessels, seafarers and civilian infrastructure should not be targeted and called for the restoration of free and unimpeded navigation through international waterways in the region.

FSUI has demanded justice for Yadav and accountability for the attack, while calling for safe passage for Indian seafarers operating on regional shipping routes.

The incident has highlighted once again the risks faced by civilian crews working on commercial vessels amid heightened maritime tensions.

Courtesy : NDTV

Picture Courtesy : Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI)