Indian Navy’s sailor reported missing from ship since Feb 27, massive search operation launched

Sahil Verma, a seaman from the Indian Navy, has been reported missing at sea from an Indian Naval Ship since February 27. The Western Naval Command, headquartered in Mumbai, has identified the missing sailor and launched a large-scale search operation involving ships and aircraft to locate him.

High-Level Inquiry Initiated

In response to the unfortunate incident, a high-level board of inquiry has been initiated to investigate the circumstances leading to Sahil Verma’s disappearance. The exact details surrounding the incident are yet to be ascertained, and the search operation is actively ongoing.

Navy’s Swift Response

The Indian Navy swiftly responded to the situation, mobilizing resources for an extensive search at sea. The Navy is committed to determining the whereabouts of the missing sailor and ensuring a thorough investigation into the incident.

“In an unfortunate incident, Sahil Verma, Seaman II, has been reported missing at sea from Indian Naval Ship whilst on deployment since 27 Feb 24. “The Navy immediately launched a massive search operation with ships and aircraft, which is still continuing,” the Western Naval Command posted on X.

In an unfortunate incident, Sahil Verma, Seaman II, has been reported missing at sea from Indian Naval Ship whilst on deployment since 27 Feb 24. The Navy immediately launched a massive search operation with ships and aircraft, which is still continuing. pic.twitter.com/bEHLkhye5o

— Western Naval Command (@IN_WNC) March 2, 2024

Global Naval Deployments

The incident comes amid the Indian Navy’s active deployment in strategic waters, including Djibouti, Gulf of Aden, East Coast of Somalia, North, and Central Arabian Sea. This deployment aims to safeguard merchant vessels, reflecting the Navy’s proactive stance in response to the regional maritime security situation.

Anti-Piracy Operations

The Indian Navy has a history of contributing to anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden and the East coast of Africa since 2008. Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt highlighted that the Navy has escorted over 3,440 ships and ensured the safety of more than 25,000 seafarers during these operations.

International Collaboration

Addressing concerns over maritime security, the Indian Navy collaborates with friendly foreign countries, sharing information to identify sources and players involved in attacks. This collaboration aligns with the Navy’s commitment to ensuring the safety of vessels amid global maritime challenges.