Overview
- Captain Rakesh Ranjan Singh, 47, died on March 18 after a medical emergency aboard the tanker ASP Avana, with Dubai officials confirming a heart attack as the cause.
- The vessel had been anchored off the Strait of Hormuz near Dubai since February 28 because regional hostilities disrupted normal movements.
- Crew members sought an air ambulance, but family and colleagues say clearance was not granted; he was taken by boat to Port Rashid/Sheikh Rashid Hospital and declared dead.
- His body is held at the Sheikh Rashid Hospital mortuary under port police custody, and repatriation awaits a Dubai police no‑objection certificate plus embassy and immigration approvals.
- The family has appealed to Indian authorities, including Minister of State Sanjay Seth and the MEA, as the operator Elegant Marine begins formalities and insurance processes, and they seek financial assistance.