An Indian seafarer was killed after the commercial cargo vessel MV Cape Dao came under attack near the coast of Oman, prompting a strong condemnation from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The vessel, carrying a crew of 20 Indian nationals, was reportedly travelling from Mina Saqr towards India when it was struck by two torpedoes on its port side, causing significant damage to the ship.
According to the MEA, the attack impacted the vessel’s accommodation block as well as part of the engine room. The force of the explosions triggered an emergency evacuation operation as crew members scrambled to secure the damaged vessel.
The victim was identified as Suraj Yadav, a wiper from Uttar Pradesh. Officials said he suffered a severe head injury during the attack and later succumbed to his wounds. The remaining 19 Indian seafarers on board were rescued safely and transferred to Oman, where they are receiving assistance from local authorities and Indian diplomatic officials.
In a statement, the MEA strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an unacceptable assault on a civilian commercial vessel. The ministry expressed condolences to the family of the deceased sailor and said India was closely monitoring developments.
“Of the 20 Indian seafarers on board, 19 have been rescued, while one Indian national tragically lost his life. We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased,” the statement said.
The Indian Embassy in Muscat confirmed that it is coordinating with Omani authorities and maritime agencies to ensure the safety and welfare of the rescued crew members. Embassy officials said they remain in constant contact with the sailors and are facilitating necessary support.
The incident has once again highlighted growing security concerns in regional waters, where commercial shipping has increasingly come under threat amid wider geopolitical tensions. Maritime experts warn that attacks on civilian vessels could disrupt trade routes and raise risks for thousands of seafarers operating in the region.
Authorities have not yet officially identified those responsible for the strike, and investigations are ongoing.