Malta monitors reported attack on Malta-flagged oil tanker near Oman
All 23 crew members were safely rescued by Omani authorities
The Ministry for Sustainable Mobility is monitoring an incident involving a Malta-flagged oil tanker which was reportedly attacked while navigating in the vicinity of the Omani coast.
According to reports, the incident took place on July 19, when the Malta-flagged Kavomaleas was hit by an unknown projectile near the coast of Oman, using the Southern route to cross the Strait of Hormuz. It was reported that the tanker was left adrift and remained on fire. Other reports say the tanker was struck by two projectiles and caught fire in the engine room.
The Kavomaleas is operated by the Greek shipowner George Procopiou, and was reportedly the second Greek vessel to be hit by projectiles.
According to tracking data, the KAVOMALEAS' last location before the attack was Fujairah, in the United Arab Emirates, on July 18.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Ministry said it was informed that all 23 crew members were safely rescued by the Omani authorities, and there were no reported casualties. It said the Ministry remains in close contact with the relevant authorities and the vessel's management and representatives as the situation continues to develop.
The Merchant Shipping Directorate, together with Malta’s Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC Malta), has been actively engaged since the first notification of the incident, maintaining continuous communication with the managers and the competent authorities coordinating the response.
Sustainable Mobility Minister Chris Bonett welcomed the confirmation that all crew members were brought safely ashore and expressed his appreciation to the Omani authorities for their swift and professional response.
“The safety of seafarers remains our foremost priority. We are relieved that all crew members have been rescued safely and are grateful to the Omani authorities for their prompt assistance," he said.
"Malta will continue to fulfil its responsibilities as a leading flag State by closely following this incident and cooperating with all the relevant international authorities.”
The Ministry said it will continue to monitor developments closely and provide any assistance required within the framework of Malta’s responsibilities as a flag State.