A fisherman from Mayiladuthurai district was killed after Iranian pirates opened fire while he and three others were fishing in waters off Saudi Arabia, according to reports.
The deceased was identified as Maveeran (40), son of Bakrisamy, from Tsunami Nagar, Gandhi Street, Thoduvai in Sirkazhi taluk. He is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter. The injured include Shankar of Keelamoovarkarai, Balraj of Thirumullaivasal, and Manikandan from Sothikuppam in Cuddalore district, who were working in the fishing sector while staying in Saudi Arabia.
The incident occurred early on August 11, when the pirates allegedly attempted to loot the boat. A dispute broke out between the two sides, following which the pirates fired at the fishermen.
Maveeran suffered severe injuries and died on the spot. Shankar sustained serious injuries, while the other two suffered minor injuries.
Saudi Arabian naval personnel reached the spot, rescued the three injured men and admitted them to a hospital for treatment. Authorities took custody of Maveeran’s body and initiated an inquiry. Officials from the Mayiladuthurai fisheries department and the Thirumullaivasal coastal security police have also begun inquiries and informed the Ministry of External Affairs. The family has appealed for steps to bring the body back to his hometown at the earliest.
