Indian dhow attacked in Omani waters, crew rescued

NEW DELHI: Indian dhow — Haji Ali — sailing from Somalia to Sharjah in the UAE sank after coming under attack in Omani waters early Wednesday. Meanwhile, two more India-bound ships, carrying LPG, crossed the strife-hit Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning, taking the total number of such vessels to 13.

The two ships are foreign-flagged vessels, the shipping ministry stated on Thursday.

Describing the attack on the mechanised sailing vessel (MSV) Haji Ali as unacceptable, govt deplored the fact that commercial shipping and civilian mariners continue to be targeted. In a statement, external affairs ministry said India reiterates that targeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding freedom of navigation and commerce, should be avoided.

Govt sources said it wasn’t clear yet who was responsible for the attack.

Mukesh Mangal, additional secretary in shipping ministry said the attack on the dhow led to a fire and subsequent sinking of the vessel.

“All 14 crew members onboard were safely rescued by Omani Coast Guard and have reached Dibba port of Dibba, that is Oman. The crew is reported to be safe and necessary formalities with local authorities have been completed,” the official stated.

Dhows carry cargo and are not regulated as big vessels, the official said.

Shipping ministry officials said the Marshall Islands-flagged LPG carrier Symi transited through the strait on Wednesday evening and it is proceeding with 21 crew members, comprising eight Ukrainians and 13 Filipinos. It is carrying 19,965 tonnes of LPG. The tanker is estimated to reach Deen Dayal port, Kandla, on Saturday.

The second Vietnam-flagged NV Sunshine, carrying 46,427 cooking gas, completed her transit through the strait on Thursday morning. It is proceeding to New Mangalore port and is expected to reach on May 18.