Crude oil tanker hit by unknown projectile off Oman
A crude oil tanker was hit by an unknown projectile off the coast of Oman. All crew members are safe and investigations are underway.
A crude oil tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile approximately four nautical miles east of Oman, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). While the impact caused damage to the vessel, authorities have confirmed that all crew members are safe and there has been no immediate environmental impact from the incident.
Details of the maritime incident
The UKMTO Operations Centre reported that the incident occurred late on Friday night. The master of the crude oil tanker reported that the vessel was struck on its port side by an unknown object. Following the strike, authorities launched an investigation to determine the nature and origin of the projectile.
In response to the escalating tensions in the region, the UKMTO issued a warning to other vessels operating in the vicinity. Maritime operators have been advised to:
- Transit through the area with extreme caution.
- Remain vigilant for any suspicious activity.
- Report any unusual occurrences immediately to the UKMTO.
Recent security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz
This latest strike follows a recent security scare involving the Kuwait-flagged tanker, MT Kazimah III. That vessel was also struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz while en route to Lomé, Togo. In that instance, the Indian Embassy in Oman successfully coordinated the rescue of five Indian nationals who were on board, all of whom have since been shifted ashore safely.
India monitors safety of thousands of seafarers
The recurring attacks in major maritime corridors, including the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea, have put the Indian government on high alert. The Ministry of External Affairs has highlighted the significant number of Indian citizens working in these high-risk zones.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided a breakdown of the Indian presence in the region during a recent briefing:
- Active Cargo Ships: 12 ships (6 Indian-flagged and 6 foreign-flagged carrying cargo to India).
- Indian Seafarers on these ships: Approximately 163 personnel.
- Total Indian Seafarers in the area: Over 4,500 individuals operating on various commercial vessels.
The Ministry of Shipping, in close coordination with Indian diplomatic missions and local stakeholders, is continuously monitoring vessel movements. The government has reiterated its commitment to the safety and welfare of the seafaring community, ensuring that necessary support is provided through embassies as required.