Japan Issues 1st-Ever Ship Suspension Order to Tokai Kisen
Tokyo, Oct. 2 (Jiji Press)--Japan's transport ministry ordered Tokai Kisen Co. on Friday to suspend some of its vessels following multiple law violations, including operating vessels under the influence of alcohol. This is the first time a ship suspension order has been issued under the marine transportation law. Between January and June this year, the ministry conducted an extraordinary...
On October 2, Japan's transport ministry issued a significant order, suspending certain vessels operated by Tokai Kisen Co. This marks the first-ever ship suspension under the marine transportation law. Between January and June of the current year, an intensive inspection by the ministry revealed 13 instances of law violations committed by the company.
In August, the ministry had already taken stern action, imposing administrative penalties which included the dismissal of officials responsible for safety and ship operation management.
The severity of the violations was highlighted by an incident that took place on New Year's Day of the current year. Two large passenger ships, along with their captains, were found to have consumed alcohol onboard and proceeded to duty without undergoing alcohol tests. This behavior is not an isolated case, but rather part of a longstanding custom within the company.
Drinking on New Year's Day, believed to have begun at least 30 years ago, has become an accepted practice among the crew members and top officials of Tokai Kisen Co.
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