EMEA News
Reports of 5,000 Tonne Bunker Spill "Not Correct" Says MV Benita Salvage Team
Five Oceans Salvage Wednesday stated that reports that an estimated 5,000 tonnes of fuel were lost from the grounded MV Benita are "not correct," noting that 145 metric tonnes (mt) of fuel were on board the vessel at the time of the incident, most of which has now been recovered.
"The overriding majority of the 145 tonnes of fuel oil on board has now been safely removed ashore," explained the company, adding that "specialised vacuum pumping equipment is now in place and operational in order to remove the small quantity of fuel oil which remains in two double bottom tanks.
"No further oil residue or pollution has been observed around the casualty and specialised anti-pollution booms remain in place along the surrounding shoreline as a precaution."
As Ship & Bunker previously reported, a U.S.-based demolitions expert is being consulted in order to determine the viability of using explosives on the rocks underneath the vessel to free it - a process that would require an environmental assessment if pursued.
The vessel itself is said to be in stable condition, with no signs of undue stress on the vessel's deck and side plates not exhibiting.
As Ship & Bunker previously reported, fuel oil removed from the grounded vessel was to be transported for treatment by the Virgin Oil Company (Mauritius) Ltd (Virgin Oil Company Mauritius).
The June 17 bunker spill made headlines after it was revealed the grounding resulted from a brawl that broke out onboard the vessel.
