A tense maritime emergency unfolded in the Caspian Sea on Wednesday when the Iranian dry cargo ship Rona sent out an SOS distress signal, prompting a rapid response from Turkmenistan’s Coast Guard that successfully rescued all 14 crew members on board.
Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that emergency response agencies acted swiftly, taking all necessary measures in line with international maritime regulations.
The ministry reported that the timely intervention ensured every crew member was brought to safety, averting what could have become a major tragedy at sea.
Preliminary information indicates that the rescued sailors are citizens of Iran and India.
Following the operation, Turkmen authorities said they are carrying out all relevant post-rescue procedures in accordance with international rules, while ensuring the welfare of those saved.
Meanwhile, an unverified image circulating online appears to show the vessel listing stern-first into the water, though officials have not confirmed the photograph’s authenticity.
No details have yet been released regarding the cause of the distress call.
Adding a layer of geopolitical intrigue, reports suggest that the Rona was travelling a route often linked to the movement of weapons and sanctioned components from Iran to Russia.
However, no official statement has addressed the nature of the ship’s cargo or its precise mission at the time of the incident.