Family Of 23 Year Old Missing Merchant Navy Cadet Accuses Vessel Operator Of Refusing To Cooperate

The family of Odisha-based merchant navy cadet Sarthak Mohapatra has alleged that officials of the company operating the vessel from which he went missing failed to cooperate during their visit to Singapore.

Mohapatra disappeared mid-sea off the Mauritius coast on 3 February while serving on board the vessel EA Jersey.

His mother, Rashmita Mohapatra, and his uncle, Santosh Sahu, travelled to Singapore after the vessel docked there to oversee efforts to trace him.

Speaking to reporters at Bhubaneswar airport after returning to India, Sahu claimed that company representatives obstructed their attempts to gather information during the visit.

The vessel is operated by Anglo-Eastern, which denied the allegations. The company stated that it had fully cooperated with the family during their time in Singapore.

According to Sahu, the family was able to board the vessel with support from the Indian High Commission and the Director General of Shipping.

However, he alleged that company officials repeatedly interrupted him when he attempted to speak with crew members and officers on board.

He further claimed that around 15 company representatives were present during the visit and accompanied the family throughout their time on the ship.

He said access to most areas of the vessel was restricted and that the family was permitted to visit only Mohapatra’s personal cabin.

Sahu also stated that the family had requested a detailed search of the vessel but did not receive a clear response. He alleged that company officials instead sought their signatures on certain documents.

During their stay in Singapore, the family met the Indian High Commissioner. Sahu said they were informed that a request for a formal investigation is pending with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore.

He added that the authority is currently investigating the case and may involve the Singapore Police if required.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohapatra’s disappearance remains ongoing.

Reference: hindustantimes

Source: Maritime Shipping News