Casualties mount after drone strike on Azov Sea ship

The number of Azerbaijani citizens injured as a result of a drone strike on a vessel flying the flag of Palau in the Sea of Azov has risen to four.

Another injured crew member — the ship’s boatswain, Rashad Madatkhanov — has been hospitalized in the trauma department of the Central City Hospital in Yeysk, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

He is currently undergoing treatment in the same ward as other injured crew members — Samid Ibadzada, Emin Valehov, and Namig Jafarli.

According to available information, the injured have undergone repeat medical examinations. It is reported that Emin Valehov is experiencing problems with his right ear, while Namig Jafarli is suffering from hearing impairment in both ears. Rashad Madatkhanov sustained a head injury.

Law enforcement officials also met with the injured crew members and took their statements. During questioning, additional details of the incident emerged.

According to the injured, the ship’s chief engineer, Gismat Aliyev, suffered severe burns as a result of the drone strike and later died.

It is also reported that the ship’s captain, Fuad Orujov, sustained serious injuries and a broken leg during the attack. According to preliminary information, after being fitted with a life jacket, he was lowered into the water. The injured crew members stated that Fuad Orujov also died as a result of the incident.

By Vafa Guliyeva