Latest News

Operator: Explosive device likely caused damage to Greek tanker near Libya last week

TMS Tankers, the Greek operator of the tanker, said that an external explosive device was most likely responsible for the explosion which damaged the Greek oil tanker Vilamoura last week as it was sailing near the coast of Libya. This conclusion is based on a preliminary investigation.

On June 27, the Marshall Islands flagged tanker Vilamoura was leaving the Libyan port Zuetina to head to Gibraltar, with around 1 million barrels oil. An explosion occurred in the engine room.

TMS Tankers stated that preliminary investigation findings indicate clearly that the explosion and subsequent fracture of side shell plating as well as the flooding of engine room was caused by an unidentified explosive.

Security at sea

Sources

Last week, it was reported that a limpet-mine may have been responsible for the explosion on Vilamoura. This is the fifth incident of this kind to occur in the past few months in the area.

After the explosion, the engine room was inundated and the vessel became unmanoeuvrable. However, it could be towed to Greece.

The operator said in a press release that the vessel had arrived safely in Laconikos Bay, Greece, and that its crew was in good health. (Reporting and editing by Renee Maltezou)

(source: Reuters)