Photos: Swedish Coast Guard
The Swedish Coast Guard towed the disabled freighter Phantom to Oskarshamn. The Freighter is now moored at a quay where operations to stabilize the vessel will continue. Plans to remove the deck cargo and bilge pumping should correct the severe list. A salvage company has been contracted to handle further operations.
The 82 meter long, 3200 dwt freighter Phantom became disabled while off Öland, Sweden. The Phantom loaded with lumber bound for Casablanca suffered a cargo shift resulting in a severe list. Part of the deck cargo broke loose and fell overboard. The crew of six on board contacted the Swedish Coast Guard who dispatched vessels and a helicopter to the scene. The helicopter first arrived and winched the crew to safety. Later a Coast Guard vessel was able to attach a line and took the Phantom under tow. The vessels were reported to be heading to Oskarshamn. Reports state there is a risk that the Phantom may capsize before reaching safety due to heavy seas in the area. Environmental vessels are also standing by in case pollution is released.
More information at the Swedish Coast Guard