Indian Seafarer Killed, 19 Rescued After MV Cape Dao Attacked Off Oman

Casualty Details and Rescue Operations

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that wiper Suraj Yadav, a native of Uttar Pradesh, succumbed to head injuries sustained during the attack. The Royal Navy of Oman evacuated the 19 surviving crew members and brought them ashore safely. According to the MEA, the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating directly with Omani authorities and the Recruitment and Placement Service Licensee (RPSL) to arrange the early repatriation of the surviving seafarers. Sonowal stated that the government will ensure Yadav’s mortal remains are returned home with full dignity while extending support to his next of kin.

MEA Condemns Rising Attacks on Shipping

The MEA strongly condemned the strike on the commercial vessel and described the ongoing maritime assaults as “deeply worrisome.” In an official statement, the ministry called for an immediate end to targeting commercial shipping, seafarers, and civilian infrastructure. India reiterated its long-standing demand for free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways, emphasizing that dialogue and diplomacy are vital to de-escalate regional tensions and restore peace.

Broader Maritime Security Concerns Off Oman

This incident follows a similar attack just ten days prior on September 13, 2026, when the commercial vessel MT El Gaia was struck off the coast of Oman. That vessel carried 14 Indian nationals, resulting in 13 rescues and one missing crew member, according to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. Because India relies heavily on Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman shipping lanes for energy imports and trade—and supplies a large share of the global merchant marine workforce—these recurring strikes carry significant human and strategic consequences for New Delhi.