23 Indian Crew Members Rescued After LPG Tanker Fire Off Yemen Coast
Twenty-three Indian crew members have been safely rescued after a major fire broke out on the Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker MV Falcon following an explosion off the coast of Yemen. The incident occurred in the Gulf of Aden on October 18, prompting a large-scale international rescue operation.
Key Details of the Incident
- Location: 113 nautical miles southeast of Aden, Yemen
- Time: October 18, 07:00 UTC
- Vessel: MV Falcon (Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker)
- Crew: 23 Indians rescued, 2 missing, 1 reportedly still onboard
- Cargo: Fully loaded with liquefied petroleum gas
The explosion caused the vessel to go adrift with approximately 15% of the ship on fire. Early reports suggest the explosion was accidental, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
Rescue Operation and Current Status
According to British security firm Ambrey, the MV Falcon was traveling from Oman’s Sohar Port to Djibouti when the explosion occurred. Radio communications indicated the crew was preparing to abandon ship as emergency response was activated.
The EU Naval Force Operation Aspides immediately launched a search and rescue operation. While 24 crew members initially abandoned the vessel, 23 Indian nationals have been successfully rescued.
“The fire onboard is increasing,” Aspides said in a statement. “MV Falcon represents a navigational hazard. Everyone in the area must exercise caution.”
Due to the risk of additional explosions from the fully loaded LPG cargo, Aspides has warned nearby vessels to maintain a safe distance. A private company has now taken charge of salvage operations for the damaged tanker.
Regional Context
This incident occurs against the backdrop of increased maritime security concerns in the region. Yemen’s Houthi rebels continue targeting commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea corridor, claiming solidarity with Palestinians amid Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The EU Naval Force’s Operation Aspides is a defensive maritime mission specifically tasked with protecting civilian ships and crews sailing through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden regions.
