Indian Sailor Killed as MV Cape Dao Attacked Near Oman with Torpedoes
A deadly attack on the MV Cape Dao near Oman has left one Indian sailor dead, raising new concerns about maritime safety in the region.
By Ravi Menon · First published 23 Sept 2026
In brief
- The MV Cape Dao was struck by two torpedoes or missiles while sailing near Musandam, off the coast of Oman.
- One Indian sailor died from head injuries sustained during the attack, and at least eighteen crew members were rescued.
- There were 28 crew members on board, including 20 Indian nationals, and the ship was en route to India.
- The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack and called for an end to assaults on commercial shipping.
- The identity of the attackers remains unknown and authorities are still investigating the circumstances of the assault.
Timeline · 4 moments
MV Cape Dao attacked by torpedoes off Oman coast
India News ↗One Indian sailor killed in attack, embassy confirms death
The Hindu ↗Nineteen crew members rescued from the vessel after attack
NDTV Top Stories ↗Indian government condemns attack and expresses concern
Times of India Top Stories ↗Update 24 Sept 2026, 8:32 am UTC
New coverage confirms the Indian sailor died from head injuries after the missile or torpedo attack. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has publicly condemned the attack and called for an end to such assaults on shipping. The vessel was confirmed to be en route to India at the time of the incident. There are no updates on the identity of the attackers or further casualties.
How it started
The MV Cape Dao, a commercial cargo vessel, was transiting through the Gulf of Oman when it came under attack. The ship was reportedly en route to India with a multinational crew, a significant portion of whom were Indian nationals. Tensions in the region have made maritime routes increasingly risky, especially for commercial shipping.
Early reports from authorities in Oman and India described an assault on the vessel involving torpedoes. The attack happened as the ship was moving through waters that have seen previous security incidents.
How it unfolded
On September 23, 2026, the MV Cape Dao was attacked off the coast of Oman. According to reports, two torpedoes struck the ship's port side, damaging the accommodation area on C-deck and the hull near the engine room. The explosion caused immediate casualties among the crew.
Indian and Omani authorities quickly responded, and the Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed the death of one Indian sailor. Rescue operations were launched, resulting in the evacuation of at least nineteen crew members from the stricken vessel.
The ship had a total of 28 crew members on board, with 20 of them being Indian nationals. Indian officials, including the Ministry of External Affairs, publicly condemned the attack and expressed concern for the ongoing safety of commercial shipping in the area.
It was not immediately clear who carried out the attack. The vessel was reportedly heading towards India at the time, and investigations into the incident began as authorities worked to secure the safety of the remaining crew.
Where it stands
As of now, the Indian government and its embassy in Oman are involved in assessing the situation and assisting the affected crew. The identity of the attackers remains unknown, and authorities are still investigating the circumstances of the assault.
Rescue efforts have accounted for most of the crew, but the incident has heightened worries about the safety of maritime routes in the region. The Indian government has called for increased vigilance and international cooperation to prevent further attacks.
What to watch
Authorities are likely to continue their investigation into who was behind the attack and how it was carried out. The safety of the remaining crew and the condition of the MV Cape Dao will also be closely monitored in the coming days.


