Two Oil Tankers Engulfed in Flames off Singapore Coast, Crews Rescued

Singapore's navy swiftly mobilized to rescue the crews of two oil tankers that erupted in flames approximately 34 miles northeast of Pedra Branca Island on July 19, 2024. The cause of the fires remains unknown, raising concerns in the bustling oil trading hub of Singapore.

Singapore's navy has successfully rescued the crews from two oil tankers that caught fire about 34 miles northeast of the Singaporean island of Pedra Branca on July 19, 2024.

Two Oil Tankers Engulfed in Flames off Singapore Coast, Crews Rescued

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) had alerted authorities to the fires at 6:15 a.m. on Friday, July 19, on both a Singapore-flagged tanker, Hafnia Nile, and a Sao Tome and Principe-flagged tanker, Ceres I.

The cause of the fires is currently under investigation.

Two Oil Tankers Engulfed in Flames off Singapore Coast, Crews Rescued

Singapore's navy deployed the frigate RSS Supreme to the scene, which successfully rescued the crew and is now providing medical assistance. The navy has not yet released any further details regarding the condition of the crew.

Photographs released by the Singapore Air Force depict the rescued crew being transported out of a helicopter and transferred to a hospital.

Singapore, a major oil trading hub and the world's largest bunkering port, has seen its surrounding waters become vital trade waterways connecting Asia to Europe and the Middle East.

The fires on the oil tankers have raised concerns about maritime safety and the potential impact on Singapore's petroleum industry.

The MPA stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and working with the relevant authorities to ensure the safety of ships and the marine environment.

The fires have also highlighted the importance of preparedness and timely response in the maritime sector. Singapore's navy's swift and efficient actions have been praised for minimizing potential casualties and mitigating the impact of the incident.

As the investigation into the cause of the fires continues, the priority remains ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected crew members.