A coordinated rescue operation involving the Indian Coast Guard and Omani authorities led to the safe evacuation of 24 Indian seafarers after a missile strike triggered a fire aboard an oil tanker near the coast of Oman. The incident occurred on Monday when the Palau-flagged tanker Marivex, sailing through Omani waters, reported an onboard fire following the attack. All crew members were successfully rescued without reported casualties.

According to the Indian Coast Guard, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai received information about the emergency and immediately initiated coordination with Omani rescue agencies. The response involved close cooperation with Oman’s maritime authorities to ensure the safety of the crew and facilitate a swift evacuation from the damaged vessel.

Visuals released after the operation showed Omani Navy helicopters hovering above the tanker and carrying out aerial rescue efforts. Crew members were lifted from the vessel's deck and transported to safety as emergency teams worked to contain the situation. The operation highlighted the importance of rapid international coordination during maritime emergencies in the region.

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Maritime traffic data indicated that the Marivex had departed from Karwar on India’s western coast and was headed to Duqm in Oman when it came under attack. The reported missile strike resulted in a fire aboard the vessel, prompting an urgent distress alert. Authorities have not yet released detailed information regarding the source of the attack or the extent of damage sustained by the tanker.

Shipping Ministry Director Opesh Kumar Sharma confirmed that all 24 Indian seafarers aboard the vessel were safe. He also noted that the Ministry of Shipping, through the Directorate General of Shipping, has been actively assisting Indian sailors affected by emergencies overseas. According to official figures, 3,506 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated so far, including 32 rescued during the previous 96 hours.

The Indian Coast Guard said it remains committed to protecting Indian citizens at sea through close cooperation with regional and international partners. Officials emphasized that collaboration with friendly nations across the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region remains crucial for ensuring prompt search-and-rescue operations and responding effectively to maritime threats. The successful rescue of the Marivex crew has been cited as another example of effective international maritime coordination during a crisis.

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