Missing Singapore tanker and crew found safe off West Africa

The 6,135 dwt chemical tanker was reported to have been boarded by pirates at around 1400hrs (UTC) on 10 April about 300 nautical miles off the Abidjan Coast, Cote d’lvoire and all contact was lost with the vessel.

A distress call from the Success-9 was picked up by the Monjasa Sprinter who reported its location to the company’s chief security officer who in turn authorities in Singapore and the Monrovia Regional MRCC. The Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said Côte d'Ivoire Navy patrol was deployed to confirm the location of the Success-9 and board the vessel.

“All crew, including the Singaporean crew, were safe and in good health. The ship has since safely arrived at Abidjan port,” MPA said.

The vessel had crew of 20 of a variety of nationalities, including one Singapore national. The Success-9 is owned by Singapore bunkering company Hai Soon Group.

The MPA advised Singapore-registered ships to exercise caution and implement the guidelines in the Best Management Practices West Africa when operating the region.

Companies should also regularly review their ship security assessment and plan under the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. Companies are advised to report all pirate activity, including both actual and attempted attacks, as well as suspicious sightings, to local authorities,” MPA said.

Related:No contact with tanker pirated in Gulf of Guinea