Akhisar

Akhisar
Photo: salvamentomaritimo.es

On September 4, the 116 meter long, 8081 dwt cargo vessel Akhisar released pollution while berthed at Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. The Akhisar was being refueled with bunker oil when there was a leak releasing some 3 tons of low sulfur oil into the water. Authorities report an oil sheen covering some 2.5 kilometers long and over 400 meter wide. Authorities closed several beaches due to the pollution. A response team was dispatched to contain the oil and begin cleaning operations.  No reports of injuries.

The Akhisar was allowed to leave port on September 7 on its voyage to Praia, Cape Verde.

 

Alfa Nero

Alfa Nero
Photo: omroepbrabant.nl

The 85 meter long, self-propelled container barge Alfa Nero (MMSI: 244700592) allided with the bridge over the Empel lock on the Máxima Canal at Empelsedijk, Netherlands. The Alfa Nero was attempting to pass under the bridge when its wheelhouse smashed into the bridge. The wheelhouse was severely damaged, but no reports of injuries or pollution released.

No further details reported on the bridge condition.

 

Argos Georgia

Argos Georgia

On July 22, the 53 meter long, 2004 gt fishing vessel Argos Georgia sank in the Atlantic Ocean some 200 miles east of the Falkland Islands. The Argos Georgia had been fishing for Patagonian toothfish when it suffered water ingress.  Unable to control the flooding, the 27 crew on board the Argos Georgia alerted authorities the vessel was sinking the crew were forced to abandon ship. r The crew struggled to launch life rafts as high winds and waves reaching 8 meters high continued to lash against the Argos Georgia.

After receiving the distress signal, authorities launched a search and rescue mission. Patrol vessels along with nearby fishing vessels began a search for survivors from the Argos Georgia. Reports state the patrol vessel Lilibet, fishing vessels Robin M Lee, and Puerto Toro searched the area along with multiple aircraft begun searching the area for life rafts.  Rescuers were able to rescue some 14 of the 27 crew which were later taken to hospital for assessment.  Nine bodies were also recovered during the operation. The remaining four missing crewmen were presumed deceased. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.