Triple collision at Kerch Strait outer anchorage

Triple collision occurred at Kerch Strait outer anchorage in Black sea on Nov 27, involving three bulk carriers: two Russia-flagged and one with probable Russian interest. Sanctioned for transporting Ukrainian grain bulk carrier MATROS SHEVCHENKO left reportedly, port Kavkaz or anchorage, exited Kerch Strait and was sailing via outer anchorage, when she went out of control in rough weather, and contacted anchored bulk carrier MATROS POZYNICH. Both ships being coupled, reportedly drifted onto bulk carrier KAVKAZ V, which was in process of heaving anchor, or already under way. All three ships are said to sustain minor damages. MATROS POZYNICH and KAVKAZ V remain anchored, after shifting locations. MATROS SHEVCHENKO can’t be traced because her AIS is off since Nov 18, when she was approaching Kerch Strait anchorage. No AIS signals from MATROS POZYNICH during last 19 hours, as of 0300 UTC Nov 28. KAVKAZ V track records are also having huge gaps. MATROS POZYNICH is also sanctioned, probably still deployed in illegal transportation of sanctioned goods, with KAVKAZ V joining the band after she was bought by new owner, whose name is undisclosed. AIS positions of many ships at Kerch Strait anchorage are hours late, causes unknown.