Indian Army Veteran Freed from Houthi Captivity in Yemen

Release of Anilkumar Raveendran

New Delhi, Dec 4: India expressed relief on Thursday following the release of Anilkumar Raveendran, a 52-year-old Army veteran from Kayamkulam, Kerala, who had been held by Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Raveendran, originally from Pathiyoor, was detained by Houthi-controlled authorities since July 7.

He was serving as a security officer on the Liberian-flagged cargo ship MV Eternity C when it was attacked and subsequently sunk in the Red Sea.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced his release, stating, "The Government of India welcomes the release of Mr. Anilkumar Raveendran, who was detained in Yemen since July 7, 2025, while on board the MV Eternity C."

The ministry confirmed that Raveendran arrived in Muscat, Oman, on Wednesday and is anticipated to return to India soon.

It also noted, "The Government of India coordinated with various entities to secure his safe release and return," and expressed appreciation to the Sultanate of Oman for its role in facilitating this outcome.

The MV Eternity C was en route to the Israeli port of Eilat when it was targeted by Houthi militants, who have intensified their attacks on international shipping amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.

The rebels captured the vessel and later destroyed it. At the time of the attack, the ship had crew members from India, the Philippines, Russia, and Greece.

During the assault, four crew members lost their lives, while six others, including Augustin from Parassala in Thiruvananthapuram, were rescued by the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) and returned home within a week.

However, 11 crew members, including Raveendran, remained in captivity until his recent release.

Raveendran had joined the shipping company five years ago through the Palakkad-based agency Ocean Group Overseas Consultancy, following a 19-year career in the Indian Army.