Heightened security measures have been enforced at Paradip Port after a Hong Kong-flagged oil tanker, MT Siren II, arrived with 21 Pakistani nationals among its 25-member crew. The move comes amid escalated India-Pakistan tensions following Operation Sindoor and recent espionage concerns.
The vessel, carrying 1,96,580 metric tons of crude oil for Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), anchored at the Single Point Mooring (SPM) terminal early Monday. It arrived via Singapore after setting sail from South Korea.
Upon notification from the Paradip Immigration Department, multiple agencies — including the Marine Police, CISF, Customs, and Port Authorities — swung into action, launching round-the-clock surveillance to prevent any possible breach of national security.
Pakistani Crew Under Strict Watch
Authorities have prohibited the disembarkation of Pakistani crew members and instructed that the ship remain at anchor until unloading is complete. Offloading is being conducted via local boats due to the vessel’s volatile cargo.
The alert was further intensified following the recent arrest of a Pakistani diplomat in India on charges of espionage. Officials emphasized that all crew movements are being closely monitored to prevent infiltration or surveillance attempts.
The situation underscores the tight maritime vigilance in place as diplomatic strains mount in the subcontinent.
