Singapore maritime authority probes collision involving bulk carrier and Chinese fishing vessel

Singapore's maritime authority is probing a collision that occurred between a Chinese fishing vessel and a bulk carrier in the Singapore Strait. The incident, which took place on September 17, was captured on video and subsequently went viral online. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) revealed on Tuesday, September 22, that the vessels involved were the China-registered Lu Qing Yuan Yu and the Panama-registered First Margaux.

According to the MPA, the fishing vessel experienced water ingress but remained afloat and stable, with the crew promptly taking steps to manage the situation onboard. Subsequently, the vessel was towed to Raffles Reserved Anchorage for further assessment. Essential crew members stayed onboard to assist with the tow, while others were safely transferred to shore by the Singapore Civil Defence Force.

Neither crew member from either vessel suffered injuries, and there was no pollution resulting from the incident. The MPA also stated that navigational traffic was not disrupted due to the collision.

To ensure the safety of other vessels, the MPA issued navigational safety broadcasts and provided escort services to the fishing vessel as it was escorted into port by an MPA craft. CNA readers are encouraged to stay updated with breaking news and the finest stories available through CNA's channel, which can be accessed via various chat applications.