Bunker Spill Brawl a Result of "Serious Medical Episode"

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Thursday June 23, 2016

Last Friday's bunker spill off southeast Mauritius following the grounding of bulker MV Benita happened after a crew member "suffered a serious medical episode," a statement issued on behalf of The London P&I Club has explained.

"The grounding followed an incident on board involving a crew member who suffered a serious medical episode which led to him attacking one colleague before causing extensive damage to the engine room systems that led to a loss of power to the vessel," the statement read.

"During the intervening time that it took to restore power, the vessel went aground. The injured crew member is receiving medical attention ashore for this seizure. There was no suggestion of a wider conflict on board and all the remaining crew members are safe and accounted for."

As Ship & Bunker previously reported, initial local media reports suggested a fight broke out aboard the 44,183 DWT bulker Thursday night, with some reports going as far as suggesting a mutiny was being staged.

The Club added that "limited oil sheens have been reported in the immediate vicinity of the vessel" and salvors are working to remove the 145 tonnes of fuel oil which remains on board.

A statement issued on behalf of the salvors, Five Oceans Salvage, Wednesday said the bunkers will be removed by helicopter.