An Indian seafarer, Suraj Yadav, died after the bulk carrier MV Cape Dao was struck by two torpedoes off the coast of Oman, according to the Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI). The attack occurred while the vessel was en route to India from Mina Saqr via the Oman route. Yadav, from Deoria in Uttar Pradesh, was identified as the victim, with the Indian Embassy in Oman confirming the death of one Indian national among the 28 crew members on board.

The FSUI reported that the torpedoes struck the port side of the vessel, one hitting the C-deck where crew accommodations are located and the other striking near the engine room. The union criticized the lack of security for seafarers in the region, stating that assurances of safety meant nothing in light of the attack. 'Innocent civilian seafarers are being slaughtered in and around Hormuz,' the union said, demanding immediate accountability, safe passage for seafarers, and justice for Yadav and others at risk.

The Indian Embassy in Oman stated it was closely monitoring the incident and coordinating with Omani authorities to ensure the safety of all crew, including 19 Indian nationals. It expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and noted that the RPSL (Royal Police Service of Oman) was involved in the response. The vessel's crew was evacuated by the Royal Navy of Oman, with the deceased seafarer's next of kin informed via telephone.

According to a report by the Directorate of Maritime Administration, the vessel had 28 crew members, 20 of whom were Indian nationals. The deceased, Suraj Yadav, was identified as a wiper from RPSL Keyline Maritime Services Pvt. Ltd. Surviving crew members, including 4th Engineer Devraj from NavSukh Marine and two from Casp, are safe at a jetty in Oman. The respective RPSLs are coordinating with the ship's owners and managers, with detailed reports and FIRs awaited.

FSUI member Manoj Yadav highlighted the broader context of attacks on Indian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, noting that 10 seafarers have died and 12 others injured in attacks on four Indian ships and 60 foreign-flagged vessels since the start of the West Asia Crisis. He criticized India's failure to protect seafarers, stating that geopolitical and diplomatic talks have not yielded results. 'India has to send its Navy to protect seafarers,' he said, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

The exact origin of the attack remains unclear. While the FSUI and the Directorate of Maritime Administration confirm the attack, no official statement has been released by the involved parties regarding the cause or responsibility. The situation remains under investigation, with further updates expected as information becomes available.