An Indian-flagged cargo vessel linked to Gujarat’s Salaya Port came under attack and sank off the coast of Oman amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz region.
The vessel, identified as MSV Haji Ali (BDI 1492), had departed after loading livestock cargo from Barbar Port and was sailing near Limah, Oman, around 3.30 am on May 13 when it was allegedly struck by a suspected explosive object, believed to possibly be a drone or missile.
Officials said the impact triggered a massive explosion and fire, causing the vessel to sink into the sea.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday condemned the attack, calling it “unacceptable” and expressing concern over repeated attacks on commercial shipping and civilian sailors in international waters.
The ministry confirmed that all Indian crew members aboard the vessel were rescued safely and thanked Omani authorities for their prompt response. India also reiterated that freedom of navigation and commercial shipping routes must remain secure.
Crew Escapes Using Lifeboats
There were 14 people on board the vessel, including one tandel (captain) and 13 sailors. Following the explosion, the crew reportedly escaped using lifeboats before the ship sank.
The Oman Coast Guard later rescued all crew members and brought them safely to Deeba Port.
Adam Bhaya, General Secretary of the Indian Sailing Vessels Association in Salaya, said all sailors were safe and their travel documents had also been secured. He added that the Indian government has been requested to arrange their return to India at the earliest.
Second Salaya-Linked Incident Within a Week
The latest attack has heightened concern among Gujarat’s maritime trading community, particularly in Salaya, which is known as a major traditional shipping hub.
Just days earlier, on May 7, another Salaya-linked vessel reportedly sank in the Strait of Hormuz during alleged crossfire linked to ongoing Iran-US tensions. In that incident, one crew member died while three others were injured and later shifted to Dubai for treatment.
Ship owners reportedly suffered losses worth several crores in the earlier incident as well.
The repeated attacks and maritime incidents in the Gulf region have triggered fear among sailors and shipping operators involved in trade routes connecting India and Gulf countries.