Twenty-Three Indians Rescued from Burning LPG Tanker off Yemen Coast after Massive Explosion

International News: The accident took place aboard the Cameroon-flagged MV Falcon, which was transporting liquefied petroleum gas from Yemen’s Aden port towards Djibouti. On Saturday, an explosion ripped through the ship, triggering a fierce blaze that quickly spread to its storage tanks. Following distress signals from the captain, international rescue forces rushed to the site. Officials reported that the vessel drifted dangerously close to the Yemeni coastline as fire consumed nearly 15 percent of its structure.

Indian sailors rescued safely

A total of 23 Indian nationals serving as crew were successfully rescued from the blazing ship. They were safely handed over to Djibouti’s Coast Guard by rescue teams. Authorities confirmed that one Ukrainian sailor was also on board and rescued alongside the Indian sailors. The quick response prevented further casualties, with the rescued crew now receiving medical care and safety support. Families in India have been informed, and diplomatic channels are monitoring the situation closely.

Two crew members still missing

While most of the crew have been saved, two sailors are still missing. Search and rescue operations are ongoing under the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR), which deployed ships and helicopters to scan the sea. Officials fear the missing members may have been trapped in the fire or lost at sea. Divers and patrol vessels have been mobilized to locate them as part of an urgent humanitarian mission. Authorities stressed that efforts will continue until closure is achieved.

International rescue effort launched

The emergency response involved “Operation Aspides,” an EU-led naval mission designed to ensure maritime security in the region. The MV Meda, a nearby merchant vessel, played a crucial role in rescuing the stranded crew from MV Falcon. Naval officials praised the coordination between regional forces, noting that such joint efforts are vital in the volatile Gulf of Aden. Maritime experts highlighted the risks posed by transporting hazardous materials like LPG through one of the world’s busiest sea routes.

Cause of explosion under investigation

The exact cause of the blast remains unclear. Early reports suggest that the explosion may have originated from the LPG cargo tanks, but investigators have not confirmed any technical failure or external attack. Djibouti authorities said a formal inquiry has begun, with international maritime organizations likely to join the probe. Officials emphasized that safety protocols for ships carrying hazardous cargo will be reviewed to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Humanitarian crisis narrowly avoided

Disaster management experts noted that the timely rescue prevented what could have been a large-scale humanitarian and environmental disaster. Had the fire spread further, it could have caused a catastrophic LPG spill in the Arabian Sea. International shipping lines crossing the Gulf of Aden were temporarily warned about possible navigation hazards. Ports in Djibouti and Yemen remain on high alert as the damaged vessel drifts under close observation.

Global concern over sea safety

This incident once again highlights the growing dangers faced by seafarers in unstable waters near Yemen. With piracy, conflict, and hazardous cargo already raising risks, the explosion underscores the urgent need for stronger global maritime safety measures. Analysts argue that international cooperation will be crucial to protect crews, cargo, and vital trade routes. For now, the rescue of the 23 Indian sailors stands as a relief, but the fate of the missing two still hangs in uncertainty.