Centre Tells Supreme Court That Extensive Search Efforts With International Authorities Failed to Locate Two Missing Crew Members
Summary
The Indian government has informed the Supreme Court that two Indian seafarers who went missing after a drone attack on their cargo vessel in the Black Sea could not be traced despite extensive search and rescue efforts. The Centre said coordinated operations involving Ukrainian and Romanian authorities were carried out following the attack, but the missing crew members remain unaccounted for.
The update was presented before the Supreme Court during proceedings on a petition filed by the family of one of the missing sailors. While acknowledging the efforts made by multiple agencies, the government said no breakthrough had been achieved despite continuous diplomatic coordination.
Centre Updates Supreme Court
Representing the Centre, government officials told the Supreme Court that search and rescue operations were launched immediately after the cargo vessel came under a drone attack in the Black Sea near Ukraine. The operations involved close coordination with Ukrainian and Romanian authorities, as well as relevant maritime agencies.
Despite these efforts, officials said the two Indian seafarers could not be located and there has been no confirmed information regarding their whereabouts.
Search Operations Conducted Across the Region
According to the government, rescue teams carried out extensive maritime searches in the area where the attack occurred. Diplomatic missions in Ukraine and Romania also remained engaged with local authorities throughout the operation.
Officials said every available lead was pursued, but the search failed to produce evidence that could help trace the missing crew members.
Supreme Court Seeks Continued Assistance
During the hearing, the Supreme Court emphasized the need to continue supporting the families of the missing seafarers. The Bench also asked the government to facilitate insurance claims and provide all possible assistance to the affected families while keeping them informed about any future developments.
The court had earlier directed the Ministry of External Affairs to coordinate through diplomatic channels to locate the missing sailors following the attack.
Families Continue to Await Answers
Relatives of the missing seafarers have expressed hope that fresh information may still emerge. Family members had approached the Supreme Court seeking urgent intervention, requesting stronger diplomatic efforts to trace the crew members after communication with them was lost following the drone strike.
The government reiterated that it remains in contact with foreign authorities and will continue monitoring the situation if any new information becomes available.
Maritime Security Concerns Persist
The incident has highlighted the growing risks faced by commercial ships operating in conflict-affected waters around the Black Sea. Maritime authorities continue advising shipping companies to exercise caution as geopolitical tensions remain high in the region.
Indian officials have also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers working on international vessels operating in high-risk maritime zones.
Conclusion
The Centre’s statement before the Supreme Court confirms that, despite extensive international search and rescue efforts, the two Indian seafarers missing after the Black Sea drone attack remain untraced. While authorities continue diplomatic coordination and support for the affected families, the case underscores the dangers faced by merchant sailors operating in conflict zones and the continuing challenges of maritime security in the region.