On December 16, the 145 meter long, 10385 dwt cargo vessel Thorco Cloud sank after colliding with the 183 meter long, 37438 dwt tanker Stolt Commitment in the Singapore Strait near Batam Island. The Thorco Cloud was headed to Brazil with Steel when it was struck by the Stolt Commitment. Of the 12 crew on board the Thorco Cloud, six were later rescued. The remaining crew was reported as missing. The cause of the collision is under investigation.
The 190 meter long, 57374 dwt bulk carrier Sinar Kapuas collided with the 249 meter long, 116039 dwt tanker Alyarmouk off Singapore near Pedra Branca. The Sinar Kapuas struck the Alyarmouk resulting in some damage to the tanker’s hold and release of crude oil into the sea. No reports of injuries on either vessel. Authorities were alerted who dispatched aircraft and anti-pollution resources to the scene. Both vessels proceeded to a nearby safe anchorage. No details to how much oil pollution was released.
The 289 meter long bulk carrier Southern Explorer collided with the 225 meter long bulk carrier Best Unity in the Singapore Straits. Both vessels sustained damage in the collision. The Southern Explorer’s hull was breached at the bow and suffered water ingress. Both vessels proceeded to a nearby anchorage. Tugs and support vessels were standing by. No reports of injuries. The Southern Explorer was en route to Taiwan while the Best Unity was in ballast after unloading its cargo from Kaoshiung.