Visakhapatnam, June 11, 2026: Suresh Patnala, a chief engineer from Visakhapatnam, was among three Indian crew members who died after the commercial tanker MT Settebello was struck off the coast of Oman on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

Indian authorities confirmed on Thursday that three Indian nationals aboard the vessel had lost their lives. Patnala, 44, was serving as the chief engineer on the tanker and had nearly 20 years of experience in the maritime sector.

Suresh Patnala was due to return home

For Patnala’s family, the tragedy has come at a devastating time. He had been at sea for nearly five months and was expected to return to India the following week. His wife, Bhargavi, said the family had been looking forward to celebrating his 15th wedding anniversary after his return.

According to his family, Patnala usually sent a “Good morning” message every day. But on the morning of the incident, no message arrived. His final message the previous night, his wife recalled, was: “Good night. Take care of the children.”

Patnala is survived by his wife, two sons, parents and a sister.

Family seeks clear answers

The family said Patnala had already received his relieving letter and was waiting for a replacement before he could leave the vessel. They said he had initially joined the tanker for a short assignment but stayed on because of his technical expertise.

Family members said they were informed that he had gone to inspect a reported generator issue when the strike took place. They are now seeking clear official information about the incident, recovery of his mortal remains and faster repatriation support.

Officials from the Indian Embassy in Oman and Andhra Pradesh Bhavan are coordinating assistance, according to the family.

Deaths highlight risks for Indian seafarers

The deaths of the three Indian crew members have once again drawn attention to the dangers faced by seafarers working on commercial vessels near conflict-sensitive waters. Indian crew members are a major part of the global shipping workforce, but their safety often becomes a serious concern when maritime routes pass through unstable regions.

For Patnala’s family in Visakhapatnam, the incident is not only a maritime tragedy but a deeply personal loss. A husband, father and experienced engineer who was preparing to return home is now at the centre of a painful search for answers.