A search and rescue operation is underway off India’s eastern coast after a distress alert and loss of contact with the Panama-flagged cargo ship MV Ocean Winner, which was carrying 24 crew members.
Two crew members were rescued late Saturday, according to India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. The two rescued individuals are undergoing medical treatment, and their identities and ranks are being verified. A commercial vessel, MT Aisopos, was diverted to assist in the search for the remaining crew.
The MV Ocean Winner sank in the Bay of Bengal approximately 276 miles (444 kilometers) off the Paradip coast of Odisha state. The ship was en route to China, carrying iron ore from Paradip Port. The crew comprised 20 Chinese nationals, three Myanmar nationals, and one Bangladeshi.
The Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy are jointly conducting the search and rescue operation.