Engine Room Fire Erupts Aboard Cargo Vessel Off English Coast; Crew Safe

Engine Room Fire Erupts Aboard Cargo Vessel Off English Coast; Crew Safe A cargo ferry experienced a significant engine room fire while transiting the English Channel on Monday, prompting an immediate maritime emergency response. The UK registered Caesarea Trader, en route from St Helier in Jersey to Portsmouth, reported the blaze during the afternoon and subsequently lost propulsion, forcing the vessel to anchor off the Isle of Wight as safety protocols were enacted. Upon receiving the distress alert, the UK’s maritime authorities mobilised search and rescue resources, including a coastguard helicopter equipped with advanced thermal imaging. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution deployed its Bembridge all-weather lifeboat, and harbour tugs from Portsmouth made way to the scene to provide support, monitor conditions, and assist in stabilising the situation at sea. All 24 people on board 23 crew members and one passenger were safely accounted for, with no casualties or injuries reported. The crew’s swift action in raising the alarm and initiating firefighting procedures contributed to the successful containment of the fire by late evening, officials stated. Once the blaze was under control, rescue units gradually stood down as the vessel remained secured at anchor.

Indian Coast Guard Dismantles International Oil Smuggling Network in Arabian Sea

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has successfully disrupted an international oil smuggling operation following a coordinated maritime security mission in the Arabian Sea, highlighting continued efforts to combat illegal activities in regional waters. The operation was carried out after maritime surveillance systems detected unusual vessel movements within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Intelligence analysis indicated the possibility of unauthorized ship-to-ship fuel transfers, prompting the deployment of both sea and air assets to verify the activity. During the operation, Coast Guard units intercepted multiple vessels suspected of involvement in the illegal transfer of oil cargo. Initial inspections revealed discrepancies in documentation and irregular operational patterns commonly associated with smuggling activities. Authorities believe the vessels were part of a wider international network engaged in bypassing maritime regulations and customs controls.

Thai Navy Rescues 16 Crew Members from Sinking Boxship Off Phuket

The Royal Thai Navy successfully rescued all crew members from a regional container vessel that began sinking off the coast of Phuket, averting any loss of life. According to maritime authorities, the boxship encountered serious difficulties while transiting waters south of Phuket, where it reportedly developed a severe list and began taking on water. A distress call was issued in the afternoon, prompting an immediate response from naval units and local maritime authorities. Rescue operations were carried out swiftly, with crew members evacuated from the vessel and transferred to nearby boats and patrol craft. All crew were safely brought ashore, and no injuries were reported. Authorities have not released details regarding the nationalities of the seafarers. The vessel later sank after the evacuation was completed. Officials confirmed that the ship was carrying containerized cargo, and precautionary measures were initiated to monitor the area for potential environmental impact, including possible fuel leakage or drifting containers. The Royal Thai Navy has deployed patrol assets to secure the area and continues to coordinate with relevant agencies to assess navigational safety and environmental risks. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the incident. This remains a developing situation, and authorities have indicated that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Iran Seizes Two Tankers in Persian Gulf Over Alleged Fuel Smuggling

Iranian authorities have seized two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf over allegations of fuel smuggling, according to reports from state-linked media. The operation was carried out by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal fuel trade in the region. Officials said the vessels were intercepted in Gulf waters after intelligence monitoring indicated they were transporting large volumes of smuggled fuel. The tankers were subsequently escorted to an Iranian port for further investigation. Authorities claim the cargo included diesel fuel believed to be intended for illegal distribution outside the country. A total of 15 crew members were detained during the operation and have been referred to judicial authorities. Iranian officials stated that the crew members are foreign nationals but did not disclose their identities, nationalities, or the flags under which the vessels were operating.