On July 19, 2024, two large oil tankers caught fire following a collision approximately 34 miles northeast of Pedra Branca, Singapore, one of the world’s busiest refueling ports. The incident involved the Singapore-flagged Hafnia Nile and the Sao Tome and Principe-flagged Ceres I.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) reported that the fire was first detected at 6:15 a.m. local time. The Hafnia Nile was carrying around 300,000 barrels of naphtha, while the Ceres I, a very large crude carrier, was reportedly transporting approximately 2 million barrels of Iranian crude. The cause of the collision and subsequent fires remains unclear.
Both tankers’ crews were safely evacuated. The Singapore Navy’s frigate RSS Supreme carried out the rescue operations, and the rescued crew members were airlifted to hospitals for medical attention. Photographs released by the Singapore Air Force showed thick black smoke emanating from the tankers and crew being transferred from life rafts.
The environmental impact of the incident is yet to be determined, though authorities in Malaysia have been advised to prepare for potential oil spills. Salvage and firefighting operations are underway, and a salvage team is en route to the scene.
The Ceres I has been known for its involvement in transporting oil from sanctioned countries, including Iran and Venezuela, and had previously switched off its AIS tracking transponders. This has raised concerns about safety and regulatory compliance in the shipping industry.
Navigational traffic in the region has not been significantly affected. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has not yet conducted aerial surveillance of the area.
National Broadcasting Company:
Oil tankers on fire after colliding close to Singapore, crew rescued
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2 oil tankers catch fire off Singapore, navy rescues crews