By Agency Reports
A submarine attack on an Iranian ship off the southern coast of Sri Lanka has left scores of people missing, with conflicting casualty figures emerging from officials.
Sources within Sri Lanka’s navy and defence ministry said the vessel was attacked and later sank, leaving at least 101 people missing, one confirmed dead and dozens injured. However, a navy spokesman disputed the figure, describing reports of 101 missing as inaccurate.
According to a navy source, 79 people were rescued and taken to hospital, with one reported in serious condition. Another source said 32 injured survivors were receiving treatment. One of those brought ashore later died.
Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister, Vijitha Herath, told parliament that the navy responded to a distress call from the ship at about 6:00 a.m. and launched rescue operations off the coast of Galle. He confirmed that at least 30 people had been rescued and said authorities would take appropriate action following the incident.
Local media reported that the vessel signalled distress near Galle before sinking. The identity of the attackers remains unclear as rescue efforts continue.