768 Indian Seafarers Stranded After Fatal Attack Off Oman
A maritime tragedy has left hundreds of Indian mariners in limbo as a fatal attack off the coast of Oman has highlighted escalating security risks in the region. The strike on the MV Cape Dao, an Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier, resulted in the death of a young Indian crew member and has left 768 seafarers stranded on Indian-flagged vessels.
Tragedy off the Musandam Coast
On 23 September 2026, the vessel was en route from Mina Saqr, UAE, toward India when it was struck twice near the Musandam coast of Oman. The impact caused significant damage to the accommodation deck and the engine room, triggering a fire that necessitated an immediate evacuation. While the Royal Navy of Oman successfully rescued 19 Indian crew members, the incident turned fatal for one sailor.
The attack claimed the life of 26-year-old Suraj Yadav, an Indian wiper from Karmajeet Pur village in Deoria, Uttar Pradesh. Yadav, who had embarked on his journey on 19 August, died from a head injury sustained during the strike. Efforts to repatriate his remains are currently underway, with his father residing in Muscat.
Maritime Movement Frozen in Hormuz Corridor
The incident has paralyzed commercial shipping movement due to mounting insurance concerns and heightened security risks within the Hormuz corridor. Currently, 768 crew members aboard 28 Indian-flagged tankers and cargo ships remain stranded. This crisis is part of a broader regional conflict that has impacted maritime security since late February 2026.
According to a situation report from the Directorate General of Shipping, approximately 23,000 Indian seafarers are currently located in Gulf waters and ports. The breakdown of personnel includes:
- UAE: 12,830
- Saudi Arabia: 3,131
- Qatar: 2,372
- Oman: 1,687
- Bahrain: 276
Additional personnel are also reported to be in Iran and Kuwait. While 215 individuals have been successfully evacuated from Muscat and Bahrain, many others remain stuck in the region.
Calls for Enhanced Protection
The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) has formally petitioned the Prime Minister to establish a 24/7 crisis cell to manage such emergencies. The union is also seeking compensation and enhanced protection measures for mariners working in high-risk zones.
In response to the tragedy, Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has pledged full support to the family of Suraj Yadav and emphasized the importance of a dignified repatriation process. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has condemned the attacks on commercial shipping vessels.
Indian diplomatic missions in Muscat, Dubai, and Riyadh are continuing to coordinate with local authorities and ship managers to oversee evacuations and ensure the welfare of the millions of Indian nationals residing across the Gulf region.