Three Indians dead, five missing in Mozambique boat accident; rescue operations underway

At least three Indian citizens are dead and five others are missing after a launch boat carrying the crew of a tanker capsized during a crew transfer operation off the port of Beira in central Mozambique, according to the Indian High Commission in Mozambique. The incident occurred on Friday, October 17, 2025, during a routine transfer of the crew to a ship anchored offshore.

The boat, carrying a total of 14 Indian nationals, capsized off the coast of Beira for an undetermined reason. In its statement, the High Commission said, “The launch boat, carrying the crew of a tanker, including 14 Indian citizens, capsized during crew transfer operations off the port of Beira in central Mozambique. Some of the Indian citizens involved in the accident were rescued. Unfortunately, three Indian citizens lost their lives in the accident and the fate of some of them is still unknown.”

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), the Indian High Commission expressed its condolences over the loss of lives. The High Commission said, “We express our sincerest condolences for the loss of life, including three Indian citizens, in the boat accident that occurred off the port of Beira. The High Commission is in contact with the families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident and is offering them all possible assistance.”

The High Commission also confirmed that five Indian citizens were successfully rescued from the crash and are safe.

One of the survivors is currently receiving treatment in a hospital in Beira. Another post said, “A Consular Officer from the Mission is in Beira and visited the Indian national who survived the unfortunate boat accident and was receiving medical care at the hospital in Beira. Five more Indian nationals were rescued.” The statement was included.

Search and rescue efforts are actively ongoing to locate the five missing Indian nationals. Local authorities, maritime agencies and the India Mission are jointly coordinating the efforts.