Singapore Leads Successful Rescue Operation for 18 Crew Members
In a remarkable display of maritime cooperation, Singapore authorities led a successful rescue operation for all 18 crew members aboard a sinking Vietnam-registered freighter on Saturday, Jan 11. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) played a crucial role in coordinating the rescue effort, ensuring the safety of the distressed vessel’s crew.
Alert and Response
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) received a distress call from the Vietnam-registered freighter Dolphin 18, which was located approximately 274 nautical miles southwest of Vung Tau, Vietnam. The MRCC promptly sprang into action, working in tandem with the Hong Kong-registered container vessel Nicolai Maersk, which had initially alerted them about the situation.
Swift Rescue and Safe Outcome
Thanks to the swift response of Nicolai Maersk, all 18 Vietnamese crew members of Dolphin 18 were successfully rescued from lifeboats. The crew was found to be in good health, a testament to the effective coordination and execution of the rescue operation by the Singaporean authorities.
Navigational Caution Advised
Despite the successful rescue, Dolphin 18 sadly sank, prompting the MRCC to issue navigational broadcasts for passing ships to exercise caution in the area. Additionally, the Vietnamese counterparts were informed about the incident, ensuring a comprehensive response to the maritime emergency.
The crew members of Dolphin 18 are expected to disembark once Nicolai Maersk reaches Tanjung Pelepas, Malaysia, marking the end of a harrowing ordeal at sea. The collaborative efforts of multiple maritime entities have once again showcased the importance of international cooperation in ensuring the safety and well-being of seafarers around the world.