Crew Rescued After Cargo Ship Drifts 12 Nautical Miles Off Mogadishu

Mogadishu (WDN) — All 18 crew members aboard the MV JACUAR have been safely rescued after the cargo vessel suffered an emergency and was left adrift approximately 12 nautical miles north of Mogadishu, Somali authorities said.

The vessel, which was anchored off Mogadishu Port, sent an emergency distress message after reporting that water was entering the ship.

The Mogadishu Port Authority ordered the vessel to raise anchor and move away from the port to reduce the risk to other ships and port operations. The MV JACUAR later drifted north of the capital.

Somali Maritime Police boats evacuated all 18 crew members, who are nationals of India, Syria and Egypt, and transported them safely to Mogadishu. Authorities have arranged accommodation, food and other essential assistance while preparations are made for their return home.

The MV JACUAR had sailed from Beira, Mozambique, to Adabiya, Egypt, carrying a cargo of copper cathodes. The vessel is owned by a Syrian company.

Somali Maritime Police have boarded the vessel and taken responsibility for securing the ship and its cargo. Access has been restricted to authorized personnel only.

The Port Authority and Ministry of Ports and Maritime Transport said they are continuing to assess the vessel and will determine the next steps based on its condition.

The immediate emergency is over: all 18 crew members are safe, while authorities now face the task of securing and managing the disabled cargo vessel and its valuable shipment.

WardheerNews