INS Teg rescues eight Indian sailors, one Sri Lankan of capsized Prestige Falcon crew

 

In a significant relief, eight Indian nationals and one Sri Lankan citizen have been rescued in the aftermath of the capsizing of an oil tanker named 'Prestige Falcon' that sailed under the Comoros flag. The nine survivors were rescued by the Indian warship INS Teg.

This comes after India and Oman deployed maritime assets as part of search and rescue operations in the aftermath of the incident.

The vessel capsized off the coast of Oman with 16 crew members on board. The crew included 13 Indians and three Sri Lankans. The rescue operation continues for the remaining survivors. 

The incident occurred on the evening of July 15, approximately 25 nautical miles southeast of Ras Madrakah in the Wilayat of Duqm.

Indian Navy has deployed a warship and Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft P8I to assist in the search for survivors.   A source told that, "An Indian Naval warship deployed in the region was sailed at short notice to render SAR assistance."

The Omani Maritime Security Centre in a release said, "search and rescue operations continue in an effort to rescue the missing crew".

Search and rescue efforts are progressing in coordination with Omani authorities and maritime assets. The search and rescue operation continues despite challenging weather conditions prevailing in the area due to rough seas and strong winds.

Apart from the maritime assets, Oman has also deployed air assets for the mission.