A tragic incident linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has claimed the life of a 26-year-old seafarer from Kerala's Kasaragod district, and four Indians were killed in a Russian attack on a cargo ship near the Ukrainian port city of Odesa. A young man who was awaiting his wedding just two months away was killed when the cargo vessel MV Golden Leo came under attack off Ukraine's Black Sea coast.
Akhil Joyan was a resident of Vellarikkundu in Kasaragod district and had been working aboard the merchant vessel for six years. Family friends and local people said he had recently returned home for his engagement ceremony and had resumed work only a month ago. His untimely death has left the whole community in shock and mourning.
The young sailor was the only son of Joyan, who worked in an electrical shop, and Sally, an insurance agent. Family members said he was the main breadwinner whose earnings supported the household. The family had just completed the construction of a new house and was looking forward to celebrating his wedding in the next few months.
Shobi Joseph, a ward member, recalled meeting Akhil on his last visit home and described him as a disciplined, humble, and well-respected young man. Akhil, apart from his maritime career, was also a great tug-of-war player, known to friends and neighbours. Joseph said Akhil was considering a career change in search of better prospects and a better future.
The family learned of his death through an email from the shipping company on Monday evening. Since then, relatives and local authorities have been trying to get more information on the nature of the attack and the process of bringing his mortal remains back to India.
We are working to coordinate with Indian authorities and diplomatic channels for the repatriation process. Local political figures have also helped the grieving family through this difficult time.
The Kerala Chief Minister's Office has directed the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA) Department to coordinate with the Russian Consulate and India's Ministry of External Affairs to gather details about the incident and facilitate assistance to the family.
According to international media, the cargo vessel, which flew the flag of Guinea-Bissau, was attacked by Russian forces after it left the port of Odesa. The ship was transporting Ukrainian corn when it was attacked, and ten crew members were killed, including five Syrian sailors, while eight others were rescued.
The attack underlines the threat to civilians who work in and around conflict areas where the Russia-Ukraine war is taking place. Merchant sailors are often navigating dangerous waters even when they don’t work directly in the military.
Kerala has been grieving since Akhil Joyan died. He was a hardworking young man with dreams of a better future for his family. His family and community are still mourning a life cut short just weeks before he was supposed to celebrate one of the happiest moments of his life.
