Indian-flagged vessel MS Virat 1 suffers engine failure off the coast of Oman; 14 nationals on board rescued

An Indian-flagged mechanised sailing vessel, Virat 1, carrying 14 Indian crew members, has reportedly been involved in an incident off the coast of Oman, prompting a search and rescue operation, the Embassy of India in Oman said on Sunday.

The Embassy in Oman, in a post on social media, said, "The Mission has learnt of an incident involving an Indian-flagged mechanised sailing vessel, Virat 1, off the coast of Oman, reportedly embarked with 14 Indian crew. Search and Rescue is being coordinated with the Omani authorities and vessels in the vicinity of the incident."

It further stated that the vessel experienced an engine failure and that the crew was eventually transferred safely to a liferaft. A rescue operation is currently underway via ships in the vicinity, under the coordination of Omani authorities.

This is a developing story. More details awaited.