Indian Seafarer Killed in Torpedo Strike on MV Cape Dao Off Oman
A devastating maritime attack has claimed the life of a young Indian sailor during a violent encounter in regional waters. Suraj Yadav, a 26-year-old wiper from Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, was killed on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, following a torpedo strike on the MV Cape Dao, an Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier.
Details of the Attack
The vessel was navigating a route from Mina Saqr in the UAE toward India when it was targeted by two torpedoes. The strikes impacted the port side of the ship, specifically hitting the C-deck accommodation area and the section near the engine room. The explosions triggered a fire and left the vessel drifting aimlessly.
The Royal Navy of Oman launched a rescue operation, successfully saving 19 of the 20 Indian seafarers on board. Tragically, Yadav succumbed to severe head injuries sustained during the assault.
A Growing Maritime Crisis
This incident marks a grim milestone for Indian maritime workers. Suraj Yadav is identified as the 11th Indian seafarer killed in regional maritime conflicts since February 2026. Government data presented to Parliament highlights the increasing volatility of the region:
- Since February 2026, 16 Indians have died in Middle East conflicts, including 10 seafarers.
- Eight of these fatalities occurred within Omani waters.
- Approximately 75 Indian nationals have been injured in the region during this period.
Note: These statistics are separate from a recent industrial accident at the Ras Laffan gas facility in Qatar, which resulted in the deaths of 12 Indians.
Government Response and Union Demands
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has described the attack as "deeply worrisome" and expressed gratitude to the Omani authorities for their assistance in the rescue. Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has pledged that the victim's remains will be repatriated with dignity.
In response to the rising danger, the Forward Seamen’s Union of India has formally appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take decisive action. The union is calling for:
- The establishment of a permanent national crisis team under the Prime Minister's Office.
- The provision of naval escorts for vessels traversing high-risk zones.
- The implementation of time-bound compensation for the families of victims.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the torpedo attack on the MV Cape Dao.
The Indian Embassy in Muscat is currently managing the repatriation of the surviving crew members and the body of Suraj Yadav. The victim's family in Deoria has been notified of the tragic news.