Bangladeshi Crew Rescued After Vessel Capsizes
A container ship bound for Chattogram from Malaysia capsized off Thailand’s coast on Saturday, prompting a swift rescue operation. All 16 Bangladeshi crew members aboard the Panama-flagged vessel, Sealloyd Arc, were safely rescued and brought to shore. The incident occurred near Phuket, where the ship began taking on water, leading to its abandonment.
Details of the Incident
The Sealloyd Arc, which departed from Malaysia’s Port Klang on February 5, was carrying approximately 290 containers. It was expected to reach Chattogram by February 12. However, while navigating south of Laem Phromthep, about three nautical miles offshore, the vessel encountered severe difficulties. According to the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 (Thai MECC3), the ship started to take on significant amounts of water, causing it to lean dangerously and risk capsizing.
In response to the emergency, a coordinated maritime rescue effort was initiated. An unidentified fishing boat first reached the distressed vessel, successfully rescuing eight crew members. Subsequently, a vessel from the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation arrived to assist, rescuing the remaining eight crew members. All 16 individuals were transported safely to Chalong Bay Pier, where authorities confirmed that none of the crew sustained injuries during the incident.
Md Mukul Hossain, the manager of the ship’s local agent, Alvi Lines Bangladesh, confirmed the incident and provided details about the ship’s journey. He stated that the captain declared the vessel abandoned after it began to sink in deep waters off Phuket’s coast. The quick response from local maritime authorities ensured the safety of the crew, highlighting the effectiveness of emergency protocols in maritime operations.
