Indian Cadet, 22, Goes Missing Near Mauritius Aboard Cargo Vessel

Indian merchant navy cadet has been reported missing at sea after vanishing from a cargo vessel navigating international waters near Mauritius. Sarthak Mahapatra, 22-year-old, a native of Kespur village in the Bhadrak district of Odisha, was serving as a cadet aboard the MV EA Jersey when he disappeared on 3 February.

The vessel, operated by Anglo-Eastern Ship Management, was on a return voyage to Singapore following a stop in East Africa.

Timeline of Disappearance

According to reports provided to the family by the shipping company, Mr Mahapatra was last seen entering his cabin on the morning of 3 February.

The alarm was raised during a routine check at approximately 08:30, when his superior officer discovered the cabin was empty.

A comprehensive search of the vessel was conducted immediately, but after a full crew count was performed, the young mariner’s absence was confirmed.

Search Efforts and Family Concerns

The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mauritius was alerted and has since coordinated search operations at sea. Despite these efforts, no trace of the cadet has yet been found.

The family has expressed deep distress, noting that:

• Last Contact: Mr Mahapatra last spoke with his mother and relatives via video call on 2 February.
• Unanswered Calls: Subsequent attempts to reach him have been unsuccessful.
• Suspicions: The family has stated they suspect foul play regarding the disappearance.

Source: Defi Media