12 Crew Members of Detained Vessel Released After Year-Long Confinement

After being detained for over a year aboard the MV Debi at Paradip Port in Odisha, 12 out of the 21 crew members have been allowed to leave, as reported by TOI. The ship was detained in December 2023 when Indian authorities discovered 22 kilograms of cocaine worth ₹220 crore hidden on board. Indian Customs and Immigration authorities approved the release of the 12 sailors after replacements joined the ship. The remaining nine crew members will also be released once their substitutes arrive.

The Panama-registered bulk carrier MV Debi, managed by the Asia Pacific Shipping Company of Vietnam, arrived at Paradip Port on November 30, 2023, from Indonesia. During an inspection, authorities found 22 kilograms of cocaine hidden under a crane, the largest drug seizure at Paradip Port. The crew’s electronics were seized for further investigation, and despite no formal charges being filed, the crew was confined aboard the vessel.

The crew faced hardships, including limited communication with their families and restricted movement. Essential supplies were periodically replenished, and medical checkups were conducted. In January 2024, an engineer attempted to jump overboard after an argument but was rescued. By November 2024, the crew staged a protest, demanding an end to their prolonged detention. The ship’s detention led to financial difficulties, with the vessel being ordered for sale in August due to unpaid dues.

Efforts by the ship’s owner for the release were rejected by Indian courts, and a new crew was arranged to ensure the vessel’s maintenance. Under International Maritime Organization regulations, sailors cannot remain aboard a vessel for more than 11 months without leave, prompting the phased release of the MV Debi’s crew. Investigations into the cocaine smuggling case continue, with the whereabouts of the drugs loading being a focus for Indian Customs officials.

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