In a concerning development, the Indian Navy is actively searching for Seaman II Sahil Verma, who has been missing from a naval ship since February 27. The Western Naval Command in Mumbai, spearheading the search efforts, has mobilized both ships and aircraft to locate the missing seaman.
The incident, which came to light through a series of tweets from the official Twitter account of the Western Naval Command, has prompted the Navy to initiate a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to Verma’s disappearance.
The Western Naval Command’s social media posts revealed the immediate actions taken following the incident, stating, “In an unfortunate incident, Sahil Verma, Seaman II, has been reported missing at sea from an Indian Naval Ship whilst on deployment since 27 Feb 24.
The Navy immediately launched a massive search operation with ships and aircraft, which is still continuing.” In addition to the search efforts, a high-level Naval Board of Inquiry has been ordered to conduct detailed investigations into the matter.
As the search operation continues, the Navy has assured that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The incident has raised concerns within the naval community and among the public, highlighting the risks and challenges faced by naval personnel.
The exact details of how Seaman Verma went missing remain undisclosed, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
I was on Board Ship INS Shakti from 17 Aug 82 to 18 Feb 84 as Sea II RP3. During ship at Sea, due to rolling and pitching, it was very difficult to move from Cabin to upper deck to reach Ops Room. Possibilities above sailor might have drowned with the wind speed. Rest pray God.
Thank you for your service sir.