In a tragic maritime incident, a Chinese fishing boat collided with a Singapore-flagged tanker, resulting in the sinking of the fishing vessel and leaving eight crew members missing, according to Channel NewsAsia.
The incident occurred at approximately 12:10 am Singapore time on December 26 near Chengshan Jiao in China’s northern Shandong province, sending shockwaves through the maritime community.
Details of the Collision: A Fateful Encounter
The unfortunate collision transpired as the Singapore-flagged tanker, identified as Pearl Kenzo, was en route from Penglai to Zhoushan. The collision occurred near Chengshan Jiao, leading to the sinking of the Chinese fishing boat and the disappearance of its eight crew members.
Chengshan Jiao is situated in China’s northern Shandong province, marking the grim site of the incident. The tanker’s intended route from Penglai to Zhoushan covers a considerable distance, passing through Zhejiang province, not far from Shanghai.
The Pearl Kenzo, owned by Singapore-based Consort Bunkers, found itself at the center of the tragedy. The tanker is currently stationed at Shidao Anchorage, actively participating in the investigations led by Chinese authorities.
Response and Investigation: Collaborative Efforts Amidst Loss
Following the collision and sinking, the China Maritime Safety Administration conducted extensive search and rescue operations to locate the missing crew members. The maritime community rallied to respond promptly to the crisis.
The Pearl Kenzo, currently stationed at Shidao Anchorage, is actively cooperating with Chinese authorities in their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collision. The collaborative efforts aim to determine the cause of the incident and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Maritime Port Authority of Singapore’s Response
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) was notified that a Singapore-flagged tanker, PEARL KENZO, had collided with a Chinese-flagged fishing vessel, SUIYUPU 0183, on 26 December at about 12:08 am (Singapore Time) near Chengshan Jiao, China. The tanker was on its way to Zhoushan from Penglai, China, when the incident happened.
2. The China Maritime Safety Administration had informed MPA that the fishing vessel had sunk and eight crew onboard are missing. The Chinese authorities had conducted search and rescue operations. All crew members onboard the tanker are safe. No pollution was reported in the vicinity.
3. PEARL KENZO is currently anchored at Shidao Anchorage and assisting in investigations by the Chinese authorities.