The Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Marivex, which reportedly carries 24 Indian crew members, made multiple attempts to circumvent a US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Sources have indicated that the vessel is subject to sanctions from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and is not under Indian ownership. The tanker allegedly tried to avoid detection by switching off its signal devices during one of its attempts on June 8.

It is reported that the vessel was attempting to navigate through Omani territorial waters when these evasive actions took place. Sources have suggested that this behaviour indicates a lack of transparency regarding the tanker’s intentions. At the time of the incident, the vessel was stated to be unladen, as it was not carrying any cargo.

Rescue Operations by Omani Authorities

Following a fire incident aboard the MT Marivex, a rapid rescue operation was launched by Omani authorities, which successfully evacuated all 24 Indian nationals onboard. The Indian Embassy in Muscat expressed their gratitude for the prompt response from Omani officials, ensuring the safety of the crew members. The embassy made an announcement on social media platform X, thanking the Omani authorities for their effective action during this critical situation.

The fire incident was reported at approximately 1:30 pm. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) in India confirmed that they are actively coordinating with other governmental departments, including the Ministry of External Affairs, to ascertain further details regarding the incident. This collaboration involves communication with Indian missions abroad and the Indian Navy, as well as the defence ministry.

Following the rescue, director of the Shipping Division Opesh Kumar Sharma stated that they are in contact with the owners of the MT Marivex to gather more information. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the fire incident, clarifying that enquiries were being made to determine if a projectile had struck the vessel.

Operational Status of MT Marivex

According to reports from the shipping ministry, at the time of the fire incident, the MT Marivex was confirmed to be in ballast condition and not carrying any oil cargo. The tanker’s unladen status contributed to the overall safety of the crew during the evacuation process. The proximity of the vessel to the Strait of Hormuz when the fire was reported has raised questions regarding its operational integrity and safety procedures observed by the crew.

As investigations continue, attention is being paid not only to the safety of the crew but also to the broader implications of the tanker’s actions in the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. The situation remains under scrutiny to ensure all regulatory and safety protocols are adhered to by vessels operating in this critical maritime corridor.

Further updates are anticipated as various ministries and agencies continue to collaborate on this matter. The Indian government is expected to closely monitor the developments surrounding the MT Marivex and its crew in the coming days as the ramifications of this incident unfold.

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