The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is investigating a collision between the China-registered fishing vessel Luqing Yuanyu 108 and the Panama-registered bulk carrier First Margaux after a video of the incident went viral on social media.
The MPA confirmed on Tuesday, September 22, that it is investigating the collision, which occurred in the Singapore Strait on September 17.
The video, filmed aboard the 49 metre fishing vessel, captures the moments leading up to the collision with the 229 metre bulk carrier.
As the clip begins, the cargo vessel approaches the fishing boat from astern, sounding a prolonged horn blast. Crew members on deck shout in alarm as the bulker closes in on the fishing vessel’s starboard quarter.
The bow of the First Margaux strikes the fishing boat, pushing it sideways and causing it to list to port. Water washes over the deck as crew members hold on to the railings. The footage ends shortly after the impact.
The fishing vessel took on water but remained afloat and stable while its crew managed the situation onboard, the MPA told Channel News Asia.
The fishing boat was towed to Raffles Reserved Anchorage for a damage assessment. A skeleton crew remained onboard while the Singapore Civil Defence Force transferred other crew members to shore. No injuries or pollution were reported.
The First Margaux did not suffer structural damage in the collision, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) said.
“The other vessel involved suffered structural damage as a result of the impact. However, it managed to stay afloat and is sailing under its own power to the next port to carry out the necessary repairs,” the AMP said.
“The AMP will continue to monitor the development of this case in strict adherence to international navigation safety regulations.”
