Kayamkulam native Anilkumar Ravindran has returned home after six months in captivity in Yemen, following a Houthi attack on the cargo ship where he worked as a security officer.
Kerala sailor recounts ordeal as family welcomes him home
A wave of relief and emotion swept through Kayamkulam on Thursday as Anilkumar Ravindran, a security officer working on an international cargo vessel, returned home after spending six months in captivity following a Houthi attack in the Red Sea. His wife Sreeja and children Anooj and Anagha listened with tearful eyes as he recounted his harrowing experience.
“As the ship broke apart in a loud explosion, I jumped into the sea. While I was drowning, a boat came to our rescue, but they took us straight to the Houthi rebels who had attacked the ship,” Anilkumar said. “We were incarcerated there.”
Ship attacked near Hodeidah port in July
The cargo vessel on which Anilkumar served as security personnel came under attack on 7 July near the Hodeidah port in Yemen, an area that has witnessed ongoing maritime tensions. The ship sustained heavy damage, forcing crew members to jump into the sea before being picked up by a boat operated by the attackers.
Anilkumar said the rebels held them in a hotel under guard. “They did not assault us, but we were not free,” he recalled. “Every day was filled with uncertainty.
A long wait for freedom
According to Anilkumar, the psychological strain of captivity was significant, even though basic needs were provided. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, as he waited for news that could lead to his release.
“On the night of December 2, an army official came in and said I would be released the next day,” he said. “Even then, I could not believe it fully.”
He was allowed to leave Yemen on 3 December, reaching Oman, where officials from the Indian Embassy received him. It was only when he boarded the flight from Muscat to Kochi that he felt certain he was finally heading home.
“When the flight took off, that was the moment I believed I was free,” he shared.
Family’s months of anxiety end in relief
Back in Kayamkulam, the months of uncertainty were deeply distressing for his family. Sreeja said she spent each day hoping for a call or message with good news. “We did not know what would happen. But we held on to hope,” she said.
Neighbours, local organisations and maritime welfare groups also supported the family, helping them stay informed while the Indian government worked diplomatically to secure the release of detained crew members.
Maritime risks highlighted
The incident once again highlights the dangers faced by crew members navigating through conflict-prone regions. Experts have pointed to the increase in maritime security risks in the Red Sea, stressing the need for enhanced protective measures, international cooperation, and improved communication systems for ships operating near conflict zones.
Shipping analysts note that security officers like Anilkumar play a vital role in safeguarding vessels, but unpredictable attacks and geopolitical tensions continue to pose challenges.
Gratitude to government and rescue teams
Anilkumar expressed gratitude to Indian authorities, international agencies, and the embassy personnel who ensured his safe passage out of Yemen.
“The Embassy staff in Oman treated me with great care. They made sure I felt safe every moment,” he said.
His return marks the end of a long, anxious wait for his family and community, who gathered at his home to offer wishes and celebrate his safe arrival.
Looking ahead with hope
Although still recovering from the traumatic experience, Anilkumar says he is grateful to be alive and reunited with his loved ones. “I want to spend time with my family now. That is all I wished for during those six months,” he said.
His story has resonated widely in Kerala, reminding the public of the unseen challenges faced by Indian workers abroad, especially those in high-risk sectors.