Inquiry causing delay in repatriation of Tamil Nadu fisherman’s body from Saudi Arabia: Minister Aadhav Arjuna

Tamil Nadu Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Aadhav Arjuna, on Thursday (August 20, 2026), said there was a delay in bringing back the body of fisherman Maveeran from Thoduvai village in Mayiladuthurai district, who was killed by Iranian pirates in Saudi Arabia, as an inquiry was being conducted.

Responding to Opposition MLAs in the Assembly who raised the issue of the attack on Tamil fishermen by Iranian pirates, the Minister said the Mayiladuthurai Collector was taking all steps to bring back the body of Maveeran (45) and help fisherman Sankar (40), who was critically injured and was being treated at a military hospital, as well as the other fishermen injured in the incident.

“The Secretary of the Fisheries Department has also written to the Union External Affairs Minister to bring them back to Tamil Nadu through diplomatic efforts,” he said.

Mr. Sankar and Paulraj (38) are from Thoduvai village, Manikandan (30) is from Cuddalore district. They, along with Maveeran, had gone to Saudi Arabia for fishing.

“When the Iranian pirates tried to rob them on August 10, they resisted the attempt, resulting in firing by the pirates. Maveeran died on the spot. Sankar was critically injured. Others sustained minor injuries and returned to their place,” the Minister said.

Mr. Aadhav Arjuna said Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay would make announcements about compensation and other assistance to the victims’ families.