Three crew members remain missing after a Thai-flagged vessel was struck by an unknown projectile near the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, while 20 others have been rescued, Thailand’s Ministry of Transport reported.
The bulk carrier Mayuree Naree, carrying 23 crew members, had departed from the United Arab Emirates, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn. An explosion at the stern caused a fire in the engine room, where the missing sailors were believed to be working.
Following the captain’s orders, the crew evacuated to lifeboats. They were later rescued by the Omani Navy and transported to the city of Khasab, the ministry said.
The Royal Thai Navy is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of Thai nationals in the region. The Mayuree Naree is among three vessels reportedly struck by projectiles near the strategic shipping lane earlier on Wednesday.
Since the outbreak of conflict in the region, 13 vessels have been attacked, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, the authority overseeing maritime security in the area.
Shipping data from MarineTraffic showed the vessel had departed from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and was heading to India at the time, Thai Enquirer reported.
