Andhra Pradesh Government Vows Support for Family of Marine Engineer Killed in US Attack off Oman Coast

Amaravati, June 12: The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, expressed profound sorrow over the death of chief marine engineer Patnala Suresh from Visakhapatnam, who was killed in a missile attack on a ship near the coast of Oman. He assured that the government would provide all possible assistance to Suresh’s family.

The Chief Minister stated that he has instructed officials to coordinate with the Indian Embassy and Omani authorities to expedite the return of Suresh’s body to India.

In a post on the social media platform X, Chandrababu Naidu wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the death of chief engineer Patnala Suresh from Visakhapatnam in the missile attack near the coast of Oman. His untimely demise during duty due to this unexpected attack is extremely unfortunate. I express my heartfelt condolences to his family and assure them that the state government will provide all possible support.”

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also described the incident as tragic and shocking. He noted that the death of an Indian marine engineer in the attack on the ship amid rising tensions in West Asia is deeply unfortunate. He prayed for the departed soul’s peace and extended condolences to the family, affirming that the government stands with them.

Earlier, the state’s Minister for Human Resource Development and Information Technology, Nara Lokesh, also expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He appealed to the central government and the Ministry of External Affairs to expedite all formalities to bring Suresh’s body back to India and provide every possible assistance to the grieving family.

Patnala Suresh was one of three Indian sailors who lost their lives in a US attack on the Palauan-flagged oil tanker MT Setebelo near the strategically significant Hormuz Strait on Wednesday. The incident also claimed the lives of deck cadet Aditya Sharma and engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasia.

Reports indicate that the US military targeted the vessel, which was accused of violating American blockades. Following the incident, the deaths of the three Indian sailors, who were initially reported missing, have been confirmed.

Patnala Suresh leaves behind a wife and two sons aged 13 and 10. The family has requested the government to expedite the return of his body to India.

–