Aden: Twenty-three Indian seafarers had a narrow escape after an explosion on board a Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) tanker off the coast of Aden in Yemen.
The Indian crew members were rescued after a fire broke out aboard the Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker MV Falcon following an explosion. Authorities have dismissed claims that the explosion was caused by an attack by the Houthi rebels. An investigation is underway to unearth the cause.
The tanker was headed to Djibouti in Cameroon from Oman when the incident occurred. Nearly 15% of the ship was on fire after the explosion, though it managed to remain adrift.
British security firm Ambrey reported radio communication suggested that the crew was preparing to abandon the vessel as a search-and-rescue operation was launched. The EU Naval Force Operation Aspides launched an immediate search and rescue operation immediately after the blast.
Reports said that two crew members, whose nationalities remain unknown, were unaccounted for, while one was still on board MV Falcon. As the tanker is fully loaded with LPG, there is a possibility of further explosions. Aspides has advised other vessels to maintain a safe distance from the tanker.
“The fire on board is increasing,” Aspides said in a statement. “MV Falcon represents a navigational hazard. Everyone in the area must exercise caution.”
The incident occurred at a time when Yemen’s Houthi rebels continue targeting commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea corridor, which they claim is in solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
The Houthis have, however, denied any role in this case.