Tamil Nadu Seeks Return of Fisherman’s Body Killed by Suspected Iranian Pirates

The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday said it was taking active steps to bring back the mortal remains of fisherman Maveeran, who was allegedly shot dead by suspected Iranian pirates while fishing off the coast of Saudi Arabia.

Minister for Public Works and Sports Development Department Aadhav Arjuna informed the Tamil Nadu Assembly that the incident took place on August 10, 2026, while responding to a calling-attention motion moved by AIADMK general secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and other legislators.

According to the minister, Maveeran, along with fellow Tamil Nadu fishermen Sankar, Palraj and Manikandan, was fishing in Saudi waters when a group of suspected Iranian pirates allegedly attempted to rob them. A confrontation followed, during which the attackers opened fire, killing Maveeran on the spot.

The surviving fishermen also sustained injuries during the incident. Arjuna said Sankar is currently undergoing treatment at a military hospital in Saudi Arabia, while Palraj and Manikandan have returned to their respective places of stay after receiving medical attention.

The minister attributed the delay in repatriating Maveeran’s body to an ongoing investigation by local police authorities in Saudi Arabia. He said the state Fisheries Department Secretary was coordinating closely with the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to expedite the process.

The government is also working to ensure the safe return of the surviving fishermen to Tamil Nadu, Arjuna said, assuring the Assembly that all necessary steps were being taken.

Opposition members urged the government to provide adequate compensation to the families of the victims, highlighting the hardships faced by the affected families.

Responding to the demand, Arjuna said the Chief Minister would make an announcement on compensation soon. The government’s efforts are expected to continue in coordination with Saudi authorities and the MEA until Maveeran’s remains are brought back and the injured fishermen are safely repatriated.