New Delhi: Demonstrating its commitment to the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers worldwide, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai coordinated with Omani authorities to ensure the successful rescue of 24 Indian crew members following a missile attack on a merchant tanker off the coast of Oman.
According to an official release, MRCC Mumbai received information at around 14:20 hrs on Monday regarding a missile attack on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Marivex while it was anchored off Masirah, Oman. The vessel had 24 crew members, all of whom were Indian nationals.
The information was relayed to MRCC Mumbai by a relative of one of the crew members onboard.
Recognising the seriousness of the situation and the immediate threat to the crew’s safety, MRCC Mumbai quickly established communication with the Oman Maritime Search and Rescue Centre (OMSC) and requested it to assume the role of Search Mission Coordinator and provide urgent assistance.
Acting swiftly, OMSC Oman launched and coordinated the rescue operation by diverting a nearby vessel and deploying two rescue helicopters to the area. Continuous coordination was maintained between MRCC Mumbai, OMSC Oman, and other stakeholders to monitor the situation and ensure the crew’s safety.
At approximately 17:00 hrs, OMSC Oman confirmed that all 24 Indian crew members had been safely rescued by helicopters of the Oman Navy. Officials reported that all crew members were safe and that no casualties or injuries had occurred. The vessel remains anchored off Masirah, Oman.
In a post on X, the Indian Coast Guard said, “Swift response by MRCC Mumbai following missile attack on MT Marivex in Oman SRR. On receiving information, MRCC Mumbai immediately coordinated with OMSC Oman, ensuring the safe rescue of 24 Indian crew by Oman Navy helicopters.”
The Coast Guard added that it remains committed to safeguarding Indian lives across the Indian Ocean through close coordination with regional partners and friendly foreign countries to ensure prompt and effective search and rescue operations.
The successful rescue operation highlights the effectiveness of international maritime cooperation and the strong coordination mechanisms between maritime rescue authorities in the region. It also underscores the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to protecting Indian seafarers and providing timely assistance during maritime emergencies, regardless of location.
As the designated Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre for a vast Search and Rescue Region in the Indian Ocean, MRCC Mumbai continues to work closely with regional and international partners to ensure safety at sea.
The Indian Coast Guard reiterated its commitment to strengthening international cooperation, protecting seafarers, and promoting a safe and secure maritime environment across the Indian Ocean Region.