Indian Navy Saves Injured Fisherman at Sea

An Indian Navy warship swiftly responded to a distress call in the Central Arabian Sea, providing critical medical intervention to a Pakistani fisherman aboard a vessel near the Omani coast. The incident, which occurred on Friday approximately 350 nautical miles east of Oman, highlights the Navy’s commitment to humanitarian aid and maritime safety.

INS Trikand, a stealth frigate on a routine mission, initially intercepted a distress signal from the Iranian-flagged dhow, Al Omeedi. Investigation revealed a crew member had suffered severe finger injuries while working on the engine and had been transferred to another fishing vessel, FV Abdul Rehman Hanzia, en route to Iran.

Responding immediately, INS Trikand altered course to intercept FV Abdul Rehman Hanzia. The vessel carried a crew of 16 – 11 Pakistani nationals (nine Baloch and two Sindhi) and five Iranians. The injured fisherman, a Pakistani national of Baloch ethnicity, had sustained multiple fractures and significant hand trauma, resulting in substantial blood loss.

A medical team from INS Trikand, including the ship’s medical officer, Marine Commandos (MARCOS), and the boarding team, boarded FV Abdul Rehman Hanzia to provide on-site treatment. Over three hours, the team administered local anesthesia, performed suturing, and applied splints to stabilize the injured fingers. The Navy emphasized that timely intervention prevented potential permanent disability due to gangrene.

In addition to the surgical procedure, the Indian Navy provided the vessel with essential medical supplies, including antibiotics, to ensure the continued well-being of the crew during their voyage to Iran. The crew of FV Abdul Rehman Hanzia expressed profound gratitude for the swift and effective assistance, acknowledging the Indian Navy’s role in saving their colleague’s life.

This incident underscores the Indian Navy’s dedication to providing humanitarian assistance, even to vessels and nationals of other countries, demonstrating a commitment to safety and well-being on the high seas. It’s a powerful reminder that maritime security extends beyond national interests to encompass a broader responsibility for the lives of those who work on the ocean.