One Dies, 26 Evacuated as Tanker Sinks in Malacca Strait
Image Courtesy: Indonesian National Search and Rescue AgencyOne crew member died while 26 more were evacuated after a 1983-built chemical tanker Nusantara Akbar started sinking in the Malacca Strait off Dumai, Indonesia, on Saturday night.
The 107-meter-long vessel, which reportedly suffered a leak in its engine room, started taking on water and subsequently sank.
As the vessel’s crew was unable to stop the leak, the captain ordered the crew to be evacuated.
The deceased crew member was found in one of the ship’s water tanks.
According to the Indonesian Coast Guard, as soon as the 6,703 dwt vessel sounded its emergency alarm the rescue crews were sent to the scene.
Naval assets also took part in the rescue mission.
Relevant authorities are conducting an investigation into the incident.
The vessel was carrying 7,000 tons of diesel at the time.
World Maritime News Staff
