Search and rescue efforts are underway for the Devon Bay, a Singapore-registered bulk carrier that sank while en route to China.
Search and Rescue Operations Continue for Devon Bay, Sunk in the South China Sea
Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the South China Sea following the capsizing and sinking of the bulk carrier Devon Bay, registered in Singapore, during its voyage to China.
The Singapore Maritime and Port Authority announced that they received information on January 23 that the 2013-built bulk carrier had sunk while heading towards the port of Yangjiang.
Crew Abandoned the Ship
Authorities reported that the crew abandoned the ship before it sank. Out of the 21 crew members, 17 were rescued, but it was later confirmed that two sailors lost their lives. Four crew members are still missing.
It was noted that there were no Singaporean nationals on board the vessel.
Last Known Location Off the Philippines
The Philippine Coast Guard stated that the last known location of Devon Bay was approximately 141 nautical miles west of Sabangan Point in the Philippines. It was reported that the ship had issued a distress call after experiencing a severe list of about 25 degrees before sinking.
Chinese Coast Guard Responded
The Hong Kong Maritime Rescue Coordination Center confirmed that, in the initial phase, 10 crew members were rescued by a passing Chinese Coast Guard vessel.
Chinese officials stated that after the incident occurred approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Scarborough Shoal, two coast guard vessels were dispatched to the area.
17 Sailors Rescued from the Water
The Southern Regional Command of China reported that out of the 17 Filipino crew members rescued from the water, 14 are in stable condition, one sailor is receiving medical treatment, and the bodies of two sailors have been recovered.
The Ship Belonged to K Line
It was revealed that the Devon Bay, with a deadweight tonnage of 56,095, belongs to the Singapore-based unit of the Japanese shipping group K Line. The ship was en route from the port of Gutalac in southern Philippines to Yangjiang, China.
Investigation Launched
As the flag state, the Singapore Maritime and Port Authority reported that they are in contact with the ship owner and regional rescue authorities and are providing support as needed. It was also confirmed that an official investigation has been initiated regarding the incident.
Search operations involving Philippine vessels and aircraft are ongoing to locate the four missing crew members. Authorities stated that further public announcements will be made as new information becomes available.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
