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ConflictIndian seafarer killed in Russian attack on cargo ship off Ukraine's Odesa coast
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A 26-year-old Indian merchant navy seafarer, Akhil Joyan from Kasaragod, Kerala, was killed in a Russian attack on the cargo ship Golden Leo off Ukraine's Odesa coast. The vessel was carrying food grains when it came under attack. Preliminary reports indicate about 10 crew members were killed, while eight others were rescued by Ukrainian authorities. Indian and Syrian nationals were among those on board. Akhil, a world record holder in rope pull, had recently returned from leave and rejoined duty a month ago. His family was preparing for his wedding when they received news of his death via email from the shipping company. The Chief Minister's Office has directed NORKA Roots to coordinate with the Russian Consulate and the Ministry of External Affairs to obtain official details and arrange repatriation of his remains.
Source report
A 26-year-old merchant navy seafarer from Kerala has been reportedly killed in a Russian attack on a cargo ship off Ukraine’s Odesa coast, according to information received by his family on Monday.
Victim Identified
The deceased has been identified as Akhil Joyan, 26, of AKG Nagar, Vellarikundu, in Kasaragod district. He was the only son of Joyan and Sally of Valiplackal House.
Incident Details
According to preliminary information received by the family, Akhil died in an explosion aboard the cargo vessel on which he was serving. The shipping company informed the family of his death via email on Monday afternoon. Further details of the incident were not immediately available.
Initial reports indicate that approximately 10 crew members were killed in the attack, while eight others were rescued by Ukrainian authorities.
The vessel, identified as the Golden Leo, was reportedly carrying food grains when it came under attack. Indian and Syrian nationals were among those on board.
Background of the Victim
Akhil had joined the merchant navy at the age of 19. In addition to his maritime career, he had earned recognition as a world record holder in rope pull, a discipline related to tug of war. He had excelled in tug of war competitions since his school days.
Akhil had recently returned to Kerala on leave, during which his marriage was fixed. He rejoined duty a month ago. The tragedy struck while his family was preparing for the wedding.
Local Response
News of his death spread quickly through Vellarikundu, with relatives, friends and local residents gathering at his house to console the bereaved family.
Following reports that a Keralite had been killed in the attack, the Chief Minister’s Office initiated efforts to ascertain the facts. It directed NORKA Roots to coordinate with the Russian Consulate and the Ministry of External Affairs to obtain official details of the incident.
Further steps, including arrangements to repatriate Akhil’s mortal remains, are expected to be taken after official confirmation and additional information are received.
Meanwhile, the Kasaragod district administration said it had not yet received any official information regarding the incident.
Source
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Regional
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