Remains of Patnala Suresh, marine engineer killed in attack on oil tanker MT Settebello off Oman,arrived in Visakhapatnam Friday, June 19, 2026. Suresh,44,was chief engineer on Palau-flagged vessel when it was hit near Strait of Hormuz June 10. He died, along with two other Indian crew members.
Upon arrival,P.G.V.R. Naidu, Government Whip and MLA for Visakhapatnam West, paid respects at Suresh's home in Srinivas Nagar. He offered floral tributes,expressed condolences to grieving family — Suresh's wife and kids . Naidu pledged government support,promised to expedite any needed assistance.
Emotional scene in Srinivas Nagar as residents,public reps,well-wishers gathered to honor Suresh. Community came together to pay last respects. Loss felt by many.
Suresh's death puts spotlight on dangers faced by Indian seafarers in conflict zones,especially Persian Gulf. His was one of three vessels attacked in region within days. On June 8,MT Marivex was hit,but all 24 Indian crew rescued . After that, MT Jalveer targeted near Shinas port June 11,all 20 crew evacuated safely.
India crucial in global maritime operations,provides 12%-15% of world's seafarers, with major contribution from Andhra Pradesh. In response to threats,Indian government summoned U.S. charge d’affaires to protest attacks. Kondapalli Srinivas,Minister for NRI Empowerment,said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to aid Suresh's family.
Tragic incident raises questions about safety of Indian seafarers in volatile regions. As community mourns,need for better protection measures at sea grows…
