GALLE: An Iranian naval frigate, IRIS Dena, has sunk in the Indian Ocean off Sri Lanka’s southern coast after issuing a distress call early Wednesday morning.
Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath informed parliament that the ship sank just outside the country’s territorial waters. Sri Lanka’s navy and air force promptly launched a search and rescue operation following the distress signal from the 180-crew Moudge-class guided-missile frigate.
According to Sri Lankan navy officials, 32 injured personnel were rescued and are receiving treatment at a state-run hospital in the southern port city of Galle. Several bodies have also been recovered from the sea.
Unconfirmed reports from defense ministry and navy sources cited by international media suggest the vessel may have been struck by a submarine attack, with at least 101 crew members reported missing and around 78 wounded.
The cause of the sinking remains unclear, and Sri Lankan authorities have denied or declined to confirm speculation about an attack, emphasizing that priority is being given to saving lives. An investigation into the incident is expected later.
The Sri Lankan navy spokesman stated that operations were conducted in line with international maritime search and rescue obligations, and efforts continue to locate any remaining crew members approximately 25-40 miles south of the island.
No official statement has been issued yet from Iranian authorities regarding the incident or casualties. The event has raised questions amid heightened regional tensions, though details on any external involvement are unverified at this stage.
