Indian Navy sailor goes missing from ship, massive search operation launched
New Delhi: An Indian Navy sailor reportedly went missing from a naval ship since February 2, following which a massive search operation has been initiated to trace him.
Speaking about the incident, the Mumbai-headquartered Western Naval Command informed that the sailor has been identified as Sahil Verma. After he went missing, a high-level board of inquiry has been ordered into the incident.
Reportedly, Sahil Verma, Seaman II, was reported missing at sea from an Indian Naval ship whilst on deployment since 27 February.
Taking to it’s X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Western Naval Command said, “In an unfortunate incident, Sahil Verma, Seaman II, has been reported missing at sea from Indian Naval Ship whilst on deployment since 27 Feb 24. The Navy immediately launched a massive search operation with ships and aircraft, which is still continuing.”
Further investigation into the matter is underway. More detailed reports related to the matter are awaited.
Earlier, the Indian Navy has seized one of the largest drug consignments during a specialised operation from a dhow.
The officials said on Wednesday that in a successful coordinated operation at sea, Indian Navy in coordination with Narcotics Control Bureau apprehended a suspicious dhow carrying almost 3,300 kgs contraband. It includes 3,089 kgs Charas, 158 kgs Methamphetamine and 25 kgs Morphine by far the largest in terms of quantity, in recent times.
Based on the input of P8I LRMR aircraft on surveillance mission, IN mission-deployed ship was diverted to intercept the suspicious dhow engaged in contraband smuggling.
In an unfortunate incident, Sahil Verma, Seaman II, has been reported missing at sea from Indian Naval Ship whilst on deployment since 27 Feb 24. The Navy immediately launched a massive search operation with ships and aircraft, which is still continuing. pic.twitter.com/bEHLkhye5o
— Western Naval Command (@IN_WNC) March 2, 2024
Ms Kalinga