MT Settebello attack: Three missing Indian seafarers found dead, Sonowal confirms

Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Thursday (June 11) confirmed that the three Indian seafarers onboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello, initially reported to be missing, are dead, adding that their bodies have been located and identified.

Three seafarers confirmed dead

Sonowal, in a social media post, further stated that it was deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello.

"Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified," stated the Union Minister, adding that this was a "profound loss to our maritime family".

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"The Modi Govt stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin," he added.

Sonowal said he has directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites.

India protests US strike

India on Wednesday summoned the US charge d'affaires to strongly protest a US military attack on a commercial vessel off the Oman coast that left three of the 24 Indian crew members missing.

Also Read: Indian crew rescued off Oman; why's MEA mum on US missile attack? | Capital Beat

The attack on commercial vessel Settebello came two days after a Palau-flagged vessel with 24 Indians came under attack by the US Navy as the ship tried to evade the US blockade of Iranian ports.

The US Central Command acknowledged the strike on the vessel, saying it violated the ongoing US blockade of the Iranian ports by attempting to transport oil from Iran.

Embassy tracking developments

Meanwhile, the Embassy of India in Oman said it was tracking reports of an incident involving a vessel near the port of Shinas and was in touch with local authorities to gather more information.

Also Read: Iran blocks Strait of Hormuz traffic, India issues urgent advisory for seafarers

"We have learnt of an incident involving a vessel off Shinas port of Oman, earlier today. We are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the local authorities for further details,” stated the Embassy as quoted by ANI.

MEA condemns attack

Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it was maintaining close contact with authorities in Oman and monitoring developments related to the rescue operation.

"We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and 03 Indians are reportedly missing. Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing Search and Rescue operation," the MEA had said.

The ministry also voiced concern over the worsening security situation in the region, stating that recurring attacks on commercial shipping were "deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region."

(With agency inputs)