Summary
Families in India are concerned about 16 Indian crew members detained in Iran after their oil tanker was seized in December. Iran alleges the ship was carrying illegal diesel, but the company and families deny this. India is working to secure consular access and the safe return of the crew members.
Key Facts
- Iran seized an oil tanker, MT Valiant Roar, on December 8, claiming it carried illegal diesel.
- The tanker, operated by Dubai-based Prime Tankers LLC, had 16 Indian crew members.
- Apart from the Indian crew, there were crew members from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
- Iran arrested 10 Indian crew members and moved them to a jail, while others remain on the ship.
- India's foreign ministry has secured consular access to the jailed crew members.
- Relatives in India are urging the government to ensure the safe return of the crew.
- The political situation in Iran is currently unstable due to widespread protests.
- Prime Tankers' owner claims the ship was carrying legal marine fuel and denies wrongdoing.
