Indian Community Rallies to Support Sailors Stranded in Tenerife Following Drug Seizure

Seven Indian sailors remain stranded in Tenerife after their cargo ship, the United S, was seized last January following the discovery of ten tons of cocaine on board. Their plight has brought attention to the vital role of local support networks in the Canary Islands. The local Asian community has rallied to help the men, with Sunil Rijhwani, president of the India Club of Puerto de la Cruz, leading the coordination of aid.

Rijhwani’s involvement goes beyond his role as a community leader; it is rooted in his own personal history. After moving to Tenerife in 1990 and navigating both business success and a difficult bankruptcy, he has used his experience to help these sailors rebuild their stability. He has acted as a bridge between the men, local social services, and organizations like Stella Maris, ensuring they have food, housing, and a way to contact their families back in India.

This situation highlights the vulnerability of merchant crews caught up in legal drug trafficking investigations. With about 2,500 members in Tenerife, the Indian community has been essential in preventing these sailors from falling into social isolation. By providing culturally appropriate meals and emotional support, the community has helped the men maintain some stability while their legal cases proceed.

The United S case is more than a maritime security issue; it shows how local support networks act as a safety net. The dedication of individuals like Rijhwani demonstrates that the immigrant community in the Canary Islands provides a crucial, compassionate resource for managing humanitarian crises in the port.