22 Indian Crew Safe After Drone Attack on Tanker Near Sharjah
A major security incident unfolded off the coast of Sharjah when a Panama-flagged crude oil tanker, the MT GEM NO. 2, was struck by a drone or an unknown projectile. Despite a fire breaking out on the vessel, all 22 crew members—all of whom are Indian nationals—have been confirmed safe and unharmed.
Emergency Response Near Sharjah Anchorage
The incident occurred on Friday, October 9, at approximately 10:00 GMT. The vessel was positioned near the Sharjah Anchorage, roughly 13 nautical miles west of Al Jazeera, when the strike took place. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the ship issued a distress alert immediately following the impact.
The 22-member Indian crew acted with remarkable speed to extinguish the fire caused by the projectile, preventing a potential catastrophe. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the safety of the personnel via a statement on X, providing relief to the families of the seafarers.
The MT GEM NO. 2 is a massive vessel with the following specifications:
- Type: Crude oil tanker
- Size: 330 meters in length
- Capacity: 302,783 DWT
- Build Year: 2017 (built by Japan Marine United)
- Management: Taipei-based Global Energy Maritime Co Ltd
- Operations: Operated under ISM by Fleet Management Ltd
Escalating Maritime Threats in the Region
This attack is the latest in a series of alarming maritime security incidents in the area. Just earlier this week, the Panama-flagged MT On Peace was also struck, an event that resulted in injuries to 11 Indian crew members who required emergency evacuation to Khasab, Oman.
The security situation in the waters has become increasingly volatile. Since the West Asia crisis began on February 28, 2026, the human cost for Indian seafarers has been significant:
- At least 11 Indian seafarers have lost their lives in the Persian Gulf and Black Sea regions.
- Over 4,200 seafarers have already been repatriated from the Strait of Hormuz area.
Government Measures and Condemnation
In response to the growing danger, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration has taken the precautionary step of suspending new deployments of Indian personnel through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has officially condemned the targeting of civilian vessels, emphasizing that they are continuing to closely monitor the situation for the thousands of Indian seafarers currently operating in Gulf waters. Authorities are currently coordinating with the vessel’s management to ensure continued safety and security for all maritime personnel in the region.