Search and Rescue Operation Underway After Singapore-Flagged Bulker Capsizes in South China Sea
A significant search and rescue operation is currently in progress in the South China Sea following the distress call from the Singapore-flagged bulk carrier, Devon Bay. The vessel, which is 190 meters long and has a deadweight tonnage of 56,000, capsized overnight on January 22, prompting immediate responses from both China and the Philippines. The incident occurred in a region known for its contentious territorial disputes, particularly surrounding the Scarborough Shoal.
The Philippine Coast Guard reported that the Devon Bay was listing at a dangerous 25 degrees when it issued its distress signal. In contrast, Chinese authorities have stated that the vessel has capsized. Images from the scene show crew members in life rafts, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The ship was carrying iron ore and was en route from Zamboanga, Philippines, to Yangjiang, China, when the incident occurred.
International Response and Ongoing Disputes
Both China and the Philippines have mobilized their maritime resources to assist in the rescue efforts. The China Coast Guard has dispatched two vessels to the area, while the Philippine Coast Guard has sent two ships, BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Cape San Agustin, along with two aircraft. Initial reports indicated that 10 crew members had been rescued, but this number has since been updated to 17, including two fatalities. Four crew members remain unaccounted for, and the search continues.
The geographical positioning of the incident has added another layer of complexity to the situation. The Chinese report places the vessel 55 nautical miles northwest of Huangyan Dao (Scarborough Shoal), while the Philippine Coast Guard asserts that it was located 141 nautical miles west of Sabangan Point, within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone. This discrepancy underscores the ongoing territorial disputes between the two nations over the shoal, which has been a flashpoint in their relations.
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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has stated that, as the flag state of the vessel, it will lead the investigation into the incident. They are in contact with the shipowner and are closely monitoring the search and rescue operations. The cause of the capsizing remains unclear, and further investigations will be necessary to determine the circumstances surrounding this maritime tragedy.
