New Delhi: India has strongly condemned an attack on the commercial vessel MV Omorfi in the Black Sea that killed an Indian seafarer and placed other civilian crew members at risk. The Ministry of External Affairs said attacks on commercial shipping were unacceptable and called on all parties to protect maritime navigation and the uninterrupted movement of global trade.

The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of Indian sailors working on commercial vessels near active conflict zones. A seafarers’ union identified the deceased as Chief Officer Sagar Gupta and alleged that the ship was struck in a Ukrainian drone attack. However, the Indian government’s official statement did not identify who carried out the strike.

MV Omorfi

According to the External Affairs Ministry, MV Omorfi was attacked on July 18 while travelling through the Black Sea, reportedly within Russian territorial waters. The Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier had 10 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals.

One Indian crew member died in the incident, while the two other Indian nationals were reported safe. The ministry said India unequivocally condemned attacks that target commercial shipping and endanger innocent civilian crew members.

Vessel records describe Omorfi as a Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier built in 2010. Commercial ships operating around the Black Sea have faced growing danger as military action increasingly affects ports, sea routes and civilian vessels.

India

India urged all parties involved in the conflict to meet their international obligations and ensure the safety and security of maritime navigation. New Delhi also stressed that attacks on merchant vessels could disrupt international commerce and threaten workers who have no direct role in military operations.

The government’s response reflects growing concern over the exposure of Indian nationals employed in global shipping. India contributes a large workforce to the international maritime sector, making the security of trade routes and civilian crews a significant diplomatic and labour issue.

Sagar Gupta

A seafarers’ union identified the Indian victim as Chief Officer Sagar Gupta. The union alleged that he died after a Ukrainian drone struck the vessel near Novorossiysk. That attribution should be treated as the union’s account because the MEA statement confirmed the attack and death but did not publicly name the party responsible.

Authorities are expected to remain in contact with the vessel’s operator and relevant governments regarding the circumstances of the incident and assistance for the affected crew members and their families.

Sea Risk

The Black Sea remains a vital route for grain, energy products and other internationally traded goods. Continued attacks on ships could raise insurance costs, disrupt shipping schedules and make companies more reluctant to send vessels into high-risk waters.

Shipping companies must conduct detailed route assessments, monitor official maritime warnings and maintain clear emergency procedures before entering conflict-affected areas. Operators should also verify war-risk insurance and ensure that crew members understand evacuation and communication protocols.

Crew Safety

The death highlights the difficult choices faced by seafarers who accept assignments near conflict zones. Employers must provide accurate security information and should not pressure crew members to enter areas where risks have not been properly assessed.