Coronavirus: Seafarers worried over outbreak repatriated from UAE

Abu Dhabi - Three additional seafarers wanted to be signed off but their company didn't allow them.

 Three Indian stranded seafarers, who were terrified after the Covid-19 outbreak, were repatriated back home. The Consulate General of India - Dubai helped repatriate the sailors.
"We got information that some Indians seafarers, onboard MV Champion from Iran, were stranded off the Port Khalid in Sharjah. We contacted their company Sea & Vessel Co LLC, which said it was a routine visit that happens every two-three months. During each visit, three seafarers are due for sign off. They will leave and replacement will join the crew," a consulate officer said.
However, three scared seafarers - Rajeesh Mani, Shibu Safi and Prakashan Gopalan - all from the south Indian state of Kerala were desperate to be relieved of duty. "Three additional seafarers wanted to be signed off but their company didn't allow them. They then sent out distressed calls. Soon we engaged in talks with the company and finally they agreed. We made arrangements for their transit. They were screened for Covid-19 and cleared. They left the UAE on Monday, March 16 night."
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi