The Ministry of Defence on Tuesday announced the successful rescue of all 24 Indian crew members aboard the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Marivex following a missile attack near the coast of Oman. The operation, carried out by helicopters of the Oman Navy, ensured the safe evacuation of all personnel without any casualties or injuries.
According to the Ministry, the tanker remains anchored off Masirah Island in Oman after the attack. The rescued crew members have been reported safe and are receiving necessary support from the concerned authorities.
The incident came to light when the Indian Coast Guard's Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai received information regarding the missile strike on the vessel on Monday afternoon. Following the alert, Indian authorities immediately established communication with the Oman Maritime Search and Rescue Centre (OMSC) and initiated close coordination with Omani officials and other relevant stakeholders.
The Ministry stated that continuous monitoring of the situation was undertaken to ensure the safety and well-being of the crew members. Through coordinated efforts between Indian and Omani maritime agencies, a swift rescue operation was planned and executed, leading to the successful evacuation of all 24 Indian nationals from the tanker.
Officials highlighted that the operation reflects the strong maritime cooperation between India and Oman, particularly in responding to emergencies in strategically important sea lanes. The incident also underscores the importance of international coordination in safeguarding seafarers amid growing security challenges in regional waters.
In its statement, the Defence Ministry praised the prompt response of the Oman Navy and acknowledged the role played by the Indian Coast Guard in maintaining communication and facilitating rescue efforts. The Ministry noted that such collaborative mechanisms are crucial for ensuring the safety of merchant shipping and maritime personnel operating in international waters.
The successful rescue operation further demonstrates the effectiveness of established maritime search-and-rescue frameworks and reinforces India's commitment to the welfare and protection of its seafarers across the globe. The Indian Coast Guard, through its MRCC network, continues to play a vital role in coordinating responses to maritime emergencies involving Indian nationals and vessels.
As investigations into the missile attack continue, authorities remain vigilant regarding the security situation in the region. Meanwhile, the safe rescue of all crew members has brought relief to their families and highlighted the importance of international partnerships in addressing maritime crises.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by commercial shipping in sensitive maritime zones and the critical role of coordinated rescue operations in ensuring the safety of those at sea.
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