Kerala Authorities Work to Repatriate Sailor Killed in Russian Strike Near Ukraine
Kasargod, Kerala–Kerala officials are working with Indian diplomatic authorities to bring home the remains of Merchant Navy officer Akhil Joy, who was killed in a Russian attack on a cargo vessel off the Ukrainian coast.
District Collector Arjun Pandyan visited Joy’s family Tuesday at their home in AKG Nagar in Vellarikundu and assured his parents, Joel and Sally, that efforts were underway to repatriate their son’s remains as soon as possible.
Pandyan said India’s Ministry of External Affairs had officially confirmed Joy’s death. The Kerala government is coordinating with the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department and the Indian Embassy to complete the diplomatic and logistical formalities required to return the body.
The collector also said the district administration would keep the family informed of developments and ensure that it received all assistance and benefits available from the state government.
Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, who was in New Delhi on Tuesday, also raised the matter with the central government and urged the Ministry of External Affairs to expedite the repatriation process. Satheesan became Kerala’s chief minister in May 2026.
Joy had recently visited his family, and his wedding was scheduled for next year.
His death has drawn attention to the dangers faced by Indian merchant sailors working aboard international vessels operating near active conflict zones.
Family members and local residents are now awaiting the return of Joy’s remains to Kerala for final rites. (Source: IANS)
