Three Indonesian crew members are missing after a UAE-flagged tugboat, Musaffah 2, sank in the Strait of Hormuz following an explosion and fire, Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed on Friday.
According to the ministry, the incident occurred in one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes. The tugboat reportedly suffered an explosion that triggered a fire before the vessel eventually sank.
The ministry said one Indonesian crew member survived the incident but sustained burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Khasab, Oman.
“One Indonesian survivor is currently receiving burn treatment at a hospital in the city of Khasab, Oman. The other three Indonesians are still being searched for by the local authorities,” the ministry said in an official statement.
Authorities in Oman have launched search operations to locate the three missing sailors. Rescue teams are continuing efforts in the surrounding waters of the Strait of Hormuz.
Explosion and Fire Reported Before Tugboat Sank
Preliminary information indicates that an explosion occurred on board the Musaffah 2, which quickly led to a fire. The blaze appears to have severely damaged the tugboat, eventually causing it to sink.
Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the explosion. Local authorities have opened an investigation to determine what triggered the incident.