Indian Sailor Killed in Torpedo Attack Off Oman Coast
A maritime tragedy has unfolded off the Musandam coast of Oman, where a young Indian sailor lost his life following a projectile attack on a merchant vessel. The incident has raised urgent questions regarding the safety of seafarers navigating regional waters.
Suraj Yadav, a 26-year-old wiper from Karmajeet Pur village in Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, was killed on Wednesday, 23 September 2026. His vessel, the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier MV Cape Dao, was struck by two separate projectiles during its voyage.
The Fatal Strike
The attack was precise and devastating. One projectile hit the C-deck living quarters, while another struck the hull near the engine room, triggering a fire on board. The impact in the living area resulted in a fatal head injury to Yadav.
In a poignant detail, Yadav had been in contact with his family via video call just one hour before the strike. During that final conversation, he had sent Rs 1,000 to his younger brother. While his father is currently working in Muscat, his mother, grandparents, and two younger brothers remain in his home village in India.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
The Royal Navy of Oman successfully executed a rescue operation for the crew of the drifting vessel, located 2.5 nautical miles off the coast. A total of 28 crew members were rescued, including 20 Indian nationals. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the event, noting that the unknown projectile strikes led to a fire and two total casualties.
Indian Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has officially confirmed Yadav's identity. The Indian government is currently coordinating with the Indian Embassy in Muscat and Omani authorities to repatriate Yadav’s remains and ensure the safe return of the 19 surviving Indian crew members.
Demands for Maritime Protection
The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) has responded to the incident with a formal letter addressed to the Prime Minister. The union is demanding immediate systemic changes to protect workers at sea, including:
- The provision of naval escorts for merchant ships.
- The establishment of rapid response mechanisms.
- Formalized safe-passage protocols in conjunction with Oman.
- The formation of a specialized crisis cell within the Prime Minister's Office.
As a mark of solidarity, the FSUI has designated 25 September as a black-ribbon solidarity day.
A Pattern of Vulnerability
The Ministry of External Affairs has described the attack as "deeply