Three Indians dead, five missing after boat capsizes off Mozambique’s Beira port

3 Indians dead, 5 missing in Mozambique boat accident; rescue operations underway

At least three Indian nationals have died and five others remain missing after a launch boat carrying 14 Indian crew members capsized during a transfer operation near the port of Beira in central Mozambique, the Indian High Commission confirmed on Saturday.

The incident occurred on Friday during what was described as a routine transfer of crew members to a tanker vessel anchored offshore. The cause of the accident remains unknown, and an investigation is underway.

In an official statement, the High Commission said, “A launch boat carrying crew members of a tanker, including 14 Indian nationals, capsized during crew transfer operations off Beira port in central Mozambique. Some of the Indian nationals involved in the accident have been rescued. Unfortunately, some Indian nationals have died in the accident, and some are still unaccounted for.”

Five Indian nationals were rescued from the water, with one survivor currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Beira. A consular officer from the Indian Mission has visited the hospitalised individual and is coordinating assistance efforts on the ground.

The High Commission expressed condolences via social media, stating, “We convey our heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives, including of three Indian nationals, in a boat accident off Beira port. Mission is in contact with families of those who have lost their lives in this unfortunate accident and is extending all possible assistance to them.”

Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with local authorities, maritime agencies, and the Indian Mission working together to locate the missing individuals. The High Commission said it is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with local officials.