India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways on Thursday reassured that all Indian seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz region remain safe despite recent firing incidents involving foreign-flagged vessels.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial press briefing, Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal said that while no Indian-flagged ships were targeted, the government is closely monitoring the safety of Indian crew members working aboard foreign vessels operating in the region.
“In the past 24 hours, there were incidents of firing on foreign-flag vessels. Although Indian vessels were not affected, we remain concerned about Indian seafarers on those ships,” Mangal stated.
He confirmed that no Indian crew members were injured. “All Indian seafarers are safe and accounted for,” he said.
Providing specific details, Mangal noted that the vessel Euphoria, carrying 21 Indian seafarers, reported all crew safe. Another vessel, Epaminondas, which had one Indian national on board, also confirmed the crew member’s safety.
The government’s statement comes amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. Earlier reports indicated that the Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Desh Garima successfully passed through the corridor on April 18 with 31 Indian seafarers, marking the 10th such Indian vessel transit since early March.
However, some vessels, including VLCC Samnar Herad and bulk carrier Jag Arnav, reportedly encountered firing in the region and were forced to turn back. No injuries were reported in those cases.
Mangal also dismissed circulating online claims about a cyberattack or extortion involving the vessel Sanmar Herald. He clarified that the reports were false and had been verified with the ship’s owner.
“Rumours about payment demands made by the captain are fake. We confirmed with the vessel’s owner that no such incident occurred,” he said.
Authorities continue to coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and monitor developments in the region.