My profession is my passion, says Ann Tessa Joseph, freed from MSC Aries
Kottayam: Ann Tessa Joseph has a relieved smile on her face when she talks about being released from the Israeli ship seized by Iran. When MSC Aries was seized by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz on April 13, Ann was just preparing to begin her duty for the day. She saw one of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard onboard and soon after heard the sirens asking them to report to the deck.
Being the only woman on board the MSC Aries, Ann Tessa was allowed to return home on Thursday following the intervention of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA.)
Recalling the incident, Ann Tessa says that the attack was completely unexpected and that those onboard the ship had no clue about such an imminent threat. Though aware of the tensions between Israel and Iran, they did not anticipate such a seizure, Ann said.
“We had gone through that route a month ago and there were no issues. After the ship was seized, the guards informed us that we were under their control. But the crew members faced no difficulties from the Iranian guards. They behaved cordially and provided us with food and other necessities.
My biggest tension was that I couldn’t inform my family. We were not given internet connectivity for two days and during that time, we had no way to contact anyone outside. We knew that our families had been informed of the capture and we were tense thinking that they would worry about us,” Ann said.
“Then they suddenly informed me that I would be allowed to leave. The others with me were happy that I could leave even though they were still being held on the ship. As far as I know, they are all safe and waiting to go home,” she added.
My father was my inspiration to take up this job as he worked with the Merchant Navy. Thus, I also wanted the same career path for myself ever since I was a child, Ann Tessa shares.
After completing her studies in BSc Nautical Science from the Indian Maritime University, Kochi, Ann Tessa got placement into the London-based company and began her first trip on board MSC Aries 9 months ago. She wishes to continue in the same job, despite this unfortunate experience, Ann Tessa says. She says her family is very supportive of her aspirations and that she is ready to take up the same job despite the risks involved.
Ann’s father is thankful to the MEA for their prompt intervention that brought his daughter home. I hope the others are also freed soon as only we know the turmoil their families must be in, Biju Abraham, Ann’s father, said. Ann is the second of his three children.