The Indian ministry of ports, shipping and waterways on Monday confirmed a fire incident aboard MT Marivex, a vessel carrying 24 Indian seafarers, stating that all crew members are safe.

Addressing a briefing on recent developments in West Asia, Opesh Kumar Sharma, director, ministry of ports, shipping and waterways, said the fire was reported at around 1:30 pm on June 8.

Speaking to reporters, Opesh Kumar Sharma stated all Indian vessels and crew currently in the Persian Gulf are being closely monitored, and that all seafarers remain safe.

Providing details of the incident, Sharma said, “There has been a recent report that today, around 1:30 pm, there has been a fire reported on a vessel, MT Marivex, in which there were 24 Indian seafarers.”

He said the ministry was closely monitoring the situation amid recent developments in the region and was coordinating with multiple government agencies to ensure the safety of the seafarers.

“This is the preliminary information which we have received, based on which, as per available information, all Indian seafarers are presently safe. We are coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs, our Indian missions abroad, the Indian Navy, Ministry of Defence to ensure their safety,” Sharma added.

Earlier in the day, the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) posted on X that the Indian seafarers aboard the vessel sought urgent assistance off the coast of Oman.

“Indian Navy in Harmouz 24 Indian Seafarers seeking urgent assistance at 2057.07N 059 degree 0813 off coast Oman onboard,” the post read. “The reported attack on a vessel carrying 24 Indian seafarers near Oman is a matter of serious concern.”

FSUI later in the day reported on X: “Finally from sinking ship Marivex off coast Oman to shore at Oman island Meariah Island. 24 Indian crew safe and sound.”

Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in Oman thanked Omani authorities for their swift response and rescue of all the 24 crew members of Indian nationality.

In a statement posted on X, the embassy stated: “We are thankful to the Omani authorities for their swift response and rescue of all the 24 crew members of Indian nationality, onboard MT Marivex, and ensuring their safety.”

Earlier, the embassy said it was closely monitoring the situation and was in contact with Omani authorities regarding the safety and rescue of the crew.