Twenty-three Indian crew members were rescued after a fire broke out on the Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker MV Falcon following an explosion off the coast of Aden, Yemen, on October 18. The vessel, travelling from Oman to Djibouti, caught fire on about 15 per cent of its structure and remained adrift. Authorities have launched an investigation, with initial reports suggesting the blast was accidental and dismissing speculation of a Houthi attack.
British security firm Ambrey reported that radio communication indicated the crew was preparing to abandon ship as a search-and-rescue operation was launched. Two crew members of unknown nationality remained unaccounted for, and one was still on board MV Falcon.
EU Naval Force intervenes amid safety concerns
Following the incident, the EU Naval Force Operation Aspides conducted a search-and-rescue operation. Due to the risk of further explosions from the fully loaded liquefied petroleum gas tanker, nearby vessels were advised to keep a safe distance. “The fire on board is increasing,” Aspides said, describing MV Falcon as a navigational hazard and urging caution in the area.
The explosion occurred amid ongoing Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea corridor, claimed by the group to support Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas conflict. In a rare statement, the Houthis denied any involvement in the MV Falcon incident.