Himachal Sailor Returns Home After US Detention, Describes 'War-Zone' Experience
Rikshit Chauhan, a 26-year-old deck cadet from Himachal Pradesh, has safely returned to his home in Palampur, Kangra, after being detained by US authorities in the North Atlantic. He described the ordeal as akin to a 'war-zone' situation, highlighting the tense circumstances surrounding the seizure of the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera.
Details of the Detention and Release
Chauhan, who joined the Merchant Navy in July 2025, was among three Indian crew members on board the Marinera, previously known as Bella 1. The 28-member tanker was intercepted and detained by US forces in early January while sailing from Oman to Venezuela. According to Chauhan, the vessel was empty and scheduled to pick up an oil cargo from Venezuela but did not enter its territorial waters. Instead, it was detained on international waters, where at least half a dozen US personnel took control.
He stated, "I heard many tales about the hijacking of vessels by pirates, but never imagined in my dreams that a similar situation could happen to me." Chauhan credited the Government of India for securing his release, noting that all three Indian crew members were freed, while the captain from Georgia and a chief navigation officer from Ukraine remain in US custody.
Life During Detention and Return Journey
During the detention, Chauhan reported that US personnel did not harm or speak rudely to the crew, but a constant fear loomed due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the US, Venezuela, Ukraine, and Russia. The vessel continued moving until they were let off at the Scotland coast. Cell phones were seized to prevent sharing of information, but crew members were allowed to perform their duties as usual.
Upon release, Chauhan was contacted by Indian embassy officials, who arranged his travel from Scotland to India. He landed at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Friday night, then took a domestic flight to Chandigarh, and finally reached Palampur by road on Sunday morning.
Political and Local Reactions
His return was met with visits from local political leaders, including Congress MLA Ashish Butail, former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, and BJP spokesperson Trilok Kapoor. Chauhan expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized the relief of being back home, especially just days before his brother's wedding.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by Indian sailors in international waters and the role of diplomatic efforts in ensuring their safety. Chauhan's experience serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of maritime operations amid global conflicts.
