A BUlk Carrier Sinks in Mautitius Island

The bulk carrier MV Benita, which was under tow en route from Mauritius to India, sank some 93.5 nautical miles from Mauritius.

News ID: 67927

Date: 01 August 2016 - 12:02

The vessel turned over by the stern, and subsequently sank at a charted depth of 4,400 meters, MANA correspondent reported.

There were no crew members aboard the 44,183 dwt bulker at the time of the sinking.

The tug Ionian Sea FOS had to activate the tow line quick release system in anticipation of the incident, the salvage company said, adding that all the crew from the tug “are safe and accounted for.”

No debris or pollution was observed around the vessel, however the Ionian Sea FOS remained on site to monitor further for signs of any pollution.

The 1998-built MV Benita ran aground on June 17 off Mahebourg, Mauritius. It was re-floated on July 23 following extensive repair works.