A significant incident involving the Greek-managed dry bulk carrier ‘Minoan Pioneer,’ registered under the Liberian flag, occurred near Oman on Tuesday while navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Reports from the British maritime risk management firm Vanguard indicate that the vessel was struck by an unidentified projectile, potentially a drone, which ignited a fire and compelled the crew to evacuate.
Vanguard noted that the projectile likely impacted the engine room, with the flames subsequently spreading to the crew accommodation area. Initial attempts by the crew to extinguish the fire and seek assistance were unsuccessful, leading to their eventual abandonment of the ship. As of now, one crew member, a third engineer, is reported missing, though no Greek sailors are among the crew.
The ‘Minoan Pioneer’ is managed by Modion Maritime Management, a Greek company. Authorities and maritime security services are actively monitoring the situation, but details regarding the origin of the projectile and the motives behind the attack remain unclear. Further information about the extent of the damage and the condition of the remaining crew has yet to be disclosed.
