Tug Mussafah 2 Explodes in the Strait of Hormuz, 3 Indonesian Crew Members Still Missing, 1 Safe, 1 Hospitalised

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Three Indonesian nationals (WNI) crew (ABK) of tugboat Mussafah 2, which exploded in the Strait of Hormuz, remain missing to date.

The search is ongoing by local authorities after the three were reported missing in waters between the United Arab Emirates and Oman, on Friday (6 March 2026) in the early hours.

‘The status of the Indonesian nationals is: 1 Indonesian crew member who sustained burn injuries is receiving treatment at Kota Khasab Hospital in Oman, and 1 Indonesian technician who survived has been located in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, 3 Indonesian crew members remain missing and are being searched for by local authorities,’ Foreign Ministry spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang said in a statement on Sunday (8 March 2026).

According to Yvonne, the incident occurred around 02:00 local time in the Strait of Hormuz.

At the time, the Mussafah 2 tugboat was conducting checks on the container ship Safin Prestige, which had sustained damage.

Under Mussafah 2’s crew were seven seafarers (ABK), including four Indonesian nationals. In addition, there were six technicians at the scene, including one Indonesian technician.

Yvonne stressed that the Indonesian missions in the United Arab Emirates and Oman continues to coordinate closely with local authorities and the vessel’s company to speed up the search.

Additionally, the Indonesian representatives also ensure medical treatment for the survivors and will continue to inform the families of the victims in Indonesia of any developments.

‘The Foreign Ministry also urges a thorough investigation into the incident, and the Indonesian mission is coordinating with authorities in the United Arab Emirates and Oman, as well as the vessel’s company,’ Yvonne said.

The Foreign Ministry also urges all Indonesian nationals in the Middle East region, including crew working in international waters, to remain vigilant and monitor developments through official information sources.

‘In case of emergency, Indonesians are urged to contact the nearest Indonesian representation hotline immediately,’ Yvonne concluded.