The 90 meter long, 4577 dwt tanker Run Guang 9 caught fire and exploded off Zhanjiang, China. The Run Guang 9 was en route to Zhanjiang from Zhuhai in ballast when one of the tanks caught fire and exploded. Twelve of the 14 crew on board were rescued with 3 sustaining injuries. Zhanjiang authorities were able to extinguish the blaze on the run Guang 9 and take control of the vessel. Two crew members were reported as missing and rescuers were still searching the vessel and the nearby area.
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.
On December 13, the 176 meter long chemical tanker Ghetty Bottiglieri collided with the 180 meter long bulk carrier Octbreeze Island at the 285 kilometer mark on the Paraná River off San Pedro, Argentina. The Octbreeze Island was heading down the river when it was struck in it’s port side by the bow of the Ghetty Bottiglieri. The Octbreeze Island suffered a 5 to 6 meter gash in its hull resulting in its fuel tanks being punctured. The bulk carrier had severe flooding and developed a list, but was not in danger of sinking. A large oil slick formed downstream from the bulk carrier which was partially contained later by booms placed by authorities. The Ghetty Bottiglieri sustained damage to its bow. No reports of injuries on either vessel. Both vessels dropped anchor near the area of the collision. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Local reports state the vessels were in a severe storm at the time of the collision.
