Thai Cargo Ship Bound For India Hit By Projectiles In Strait Of Hormuz, 3 Crew Missing

A Thai-flagged cargo vessel sailing to India was hit by projectiles while passing through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, leaving three crew members missing and causing a fire onboard.

The bulk carrier Mayuree Naree was heading to Kandla Port in Gujarat when the attack damaged its engine room and forced most of the crew to abandon the ship.

The vessel, Mayuree Naree, is a Thai-flagged dry bulk carrier owned by Precious Shipping Plc. The ship is about 178 metres long and has a deadweight of around 30,000 tonnes.

According to the ship’s operator and maritime authorities, the vessel was struck by two projectiles of unknown origin while sailing through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday.

The impact caused a fire onboard and badly damaged the engine room near the stern of the vessel. At the time of the attack, there were 23 crew members onboard.

Three crew members were reported missing after the fire. They are believed to be trapped inside the engine room.

Rescue operations began soon after the incident. Authorities confirmed that 20 crew members were evacuated safely and taken ashore in Oman.

Oman’s navy assisted in the rescue operation after distress alerts were sent from the vessel.

The ship’s operator said efforts are continuing to locate and rescue the three missing crew members who may still be inside the damaged engine compartment.

Photos released by the Royal Thai Navy showed thick black smoke rising from the rear part of the vessel. Life rafts and lifeboats were also seen floating near the ship.

Shipping data showed that Mayuree Naree had departed from Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates several hours before the attack.

The vessel was travelling to Kandla Port in India when it was hit while passing through the narrow Strait of Hormuz. Authorities said the exact cause and source of the attack are still being investigated.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs condemned the targeting of commercial ships after reports confirmed that the vessel was bound for an Indian port.

In a statement, the ministry said it had seen reports that the Thai vessel Mayuree Naree was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz while sailing to Kandla.

The government expressed concern over the increasing attacks on merchant ships in the region and the risks faced by civilian seafarers.

Indian authorities also warned that commercial shipping and freedom of navigation should not be endangered. The ministry added that earlier attacks during the conflict had already resulted in casualties, including Indian citizens.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre reported that three commercial vessels were struck by projectiles in the region on the same day.

In another case, a cargo vessel caught fire after being hit by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz. A container ship was also damaged by a suspected projectile near the coast of the United Arab Emirates, although its crew members were reported safe.

Data from maritime monitoring agencies showed that at least 14 vessels have been struck or targeted in the region since February 28.

Between March 1 and March 10 alone, at least 10 oil tankers were reported to have faced attacks or threats in or near the strategic waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea and is considered one of the most important maritime chokepoints in the world.

A large share of the world’s crude oil and energy shipments passes through this narrow route every day. Any disruption in the area can affect global shipping routes, oil markets, and maritime insurance costs.

References: Firstpost, TimesNow

Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.