Search Operation / Indian Coast Guard, Navy Intensify Search for 22 Missing Crew After Cargo Ship Sinks Off Paradip

Paradip, Aug 24: A Panama-flagged cargo vessel, MV Ocean Winner -- which sank off the Odisha coast on August 22 -- leaving 22 crew members missing, while two others have been rescued so far.

The vessel was carrying 24 crew members, including 20 Chinese nationals, three Myanmar nationals and one Bangladeshi national. It was carrying around 71,200 tonnes of iron ore and had sailed from Paradip for Singapore on August 20.

The Indian Navy's P-8I maritime patrol aircraft spotted liferafts in the area and coordinated with the transiting MT Aisopos. Subsequently, the crew of the MT Aisopos successfully rescued two survivors from the liferafts.

The two rescued crew members are receiving medical treatment. Their identities and ranks are yet to be verified.

The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) received information at around 11:48 am on August 22 that contact with the vessel had been lost. A search-and-rescue operation was launched immediately.

Also Read: Panama-Flagged Ship Sinks Off Paradip Coast; 24 Crew Members On Board

Indian Coast Guard vessels ICGS Varad, Amal and Vijit, along with Indian Navy assets and nearby merchant vessels, have joined the search operation for the missing crew members.

The exact reason behind the sinking has not yet been officially established. Authorities are likely to examine several aspects, including the condition and loading of the cargo, vessel stability, structural integrity, ballast arrangements, mechanical or engine failure, and prevailing weather and sea conditions.

Given the large quantity of iron ore on board, investigators may also examine whether cargo liquefaction played any role. However, there is currently no official confirmation that this or any other factor caused the vessel to sink.

The vessel was reportedly built in 1998. However, its age alone cannot be considered the main cause of the incident without further investigation.