4 Indians Killed In Attack On Ship Off Ukraine
“Four Indian nationals have lost their lives, while one is hospitalised in a critical condition”: The Ministry Of External Affairs
NEW DELHI: Four Indian sailors were killed and another critically injured when a merchant vessel came under attack while leaving Ukraine’s Odesa port, the ministry of external affairs said on Monday.
The MV Golden Leo was carrying 17 crew members, including five Indians, when it was attacked on the evening of July 19. New Delhi did not identify those responsible for the strike, which came amid escalating hostilities between Russia and Ukraine.
Confirming the attack, the MEA said: “Four Indian nationals have lost their lives, while one is hospitalised in a critical condition.”
The Indian mission in Ukraine was closely monitoring the situation and extending all possible assistance to those affected, it said.
India condemned the attack, saying the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian crew members was deplorable.
“Targeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding freedom of navigation and commerce, is deplorable and should be avoided,” the MEA said.
It conveyed its condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured Indian a speedy recovery.
Foreign media reports said the Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo vessel was struck shortly after leaving Odesa port on Sunday.
In Kerala, the family of 26-year-old merchant navy sailor Akhil Joyan said they had been informed by the shipping company that he was among those killed. Official confirmation of his identity was, however, awaited.
Akhil, a resident of Vellarikkundu in Kasaragod district, was due to get married in two months. He had returned home three months ago for his engagement and rejoined duty a month ago.
“He joined the merchant navy at the age of 19. His marriage was scheduled to take place two months from now,” Vellarikkundu ward member Shobi Joseph said.
Describing Akhil as a disciplined and well-liked youngster, Mr Joseph said the sailor was the mainstay of his family. His father works at an electrical shop and his mother is an insurance agent. The family had recently built a house.
“They are an ordinary family, and their future depended largely on Akhil,” he said.
The family is in touch with elected representatives for assistance in bringing home his mortal remains and completing the necessary formalities.
