Apr 26 UPDATE: Bulk carrier still aground, assigned salvage company commenced salvage on Apr 22. Refloating requires partial offloading of ship’s cargo, 55,000 tons of nickel ore, which were loaded at Emir Mining, Philippines, and destined for Caofeidian China. Reportedly, grounding was caused by stormy weather – bulk carrier tried to shelter, but instead, ran onto reefs. Locals fear reefs might be damaged or destroyed, it is to be determined after refloating. 20 all-Chinese crew on board are safe.
Apr 23 0440 UTC UPDATE: Tug MALASUGUI 1 (IMO 8998409) approached bulk carrier early in the morning Apr 23. Bulk carrier AIS re-emerged, the ship’s in the same position, coordinates don’t change.
Apr 19: Bulk carrier ZHE HAI 168 aground since around 2000 LT Apr 18 off southeast Samar island coast, Guiuan, Philippines. Apr 20: AIS missing since 0300 LT Apr 20.
The opinions expressed herein are the author’s and not necessarily those of News2Sea.
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