The bodies of three of four missing seafarers have been found following the fire that devastated the Maersk Honam 340 miles off India's Lakshadweep Islands last week.
Maersk Line said it made the announcement "with deep sadness" that human remains had been found on the 15,262-teu ship.
"At this point in time our three colleagues are unidentified", it added.
"Given the time passed and the severe fire damages of the vessel we must conclude by now that we have lost all four colleagues who have been missing since the fire onboard Maersk Honam which began on 6 March," the company said. "All four families of our deceased colleagues have been informed."
COO Soren Toft said: “Our most heartfelt condolences go out to families of our deceased colleagues. We share their sorrow and do our outmost to support them in this devastating time."
Search of ship continues
A thorough search of the vessel is continuing, but sea rescue operations have been stopped.
A total of 23 other crew were rescued, but one died later from his injuries.
The conditions of the remaining seafarers are "progressing positively," Maersk said.
"All 22 have received medical treatment and the majority have been released from hospitals. Colleagues who initially received intensive care have been moved to a general ward and are recovering well. A crisis psychologist has been made available to all crew."
Chief technical officer Palle Laursen added: “Our colleagues that were evacuated to local hospitals in varying conditions of health are improving and we are now preparing to bring them back to their families as their condition allows.”
India Marine Police is conducting a routine investigation of the incident and will be interviewing all crew members.
Specialised firefighting vessels remain engaged at the scene, with salvage operations led by Smit Salvage and Ardent.
