The general cargo ship named Alraqeem, where a crew of 13 was stranded for approximately eight months and fought for survival under harsh conditions, is being put up for sale through foreclosure.

Built in 1978 and flying the flag of the Comoros Islands, the ship was detained off the coast of Mersin in November 2023 due to creditor claims. During the detention process, the crew members aboard the ship were unable to leave for months without receiving their salaries and with limited access to basic necessities.

Prolonged Victimization

The sailors serving on Alraqeem were forced to remain on board for an extended period due to the prolongation of legal processes. The situation has been recorded as one of the striking examples of 'abandonment of ships' in the maritime sector. After ongoing efforts, the crew was able to return to their home countries approximately eight months later.

Decision to Sell Due to Debt

A decision for foreclosure sale was made regarding Alraqeem after the shipowner company was unable to pay its fuel and supply debts. The foreclosure file indicates that the ship is being offered for sale at an approximate price of 14 million TL.

Inoperable Condition

It is stated that the ship, which is still located in Mersin, is not in operational condition, and its machinery and equipment have suffered significant wear due to prolonged waiting. The approximately 80-meter-long general cargo ship is noted to be unfit for sailing in its current state.

Highlighted Structural Issues in Maritime Industry

The Alraqeem case has once again brought to light the increasing number of incidents in the maritime sector where crew members are stranded on ships for months due to shipowners' inability to fulfill their obligations as a result of economic difficulties.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye