Bulgaria Reports Discovery of Human Remains on Ship Hit by Drone

Bulgarian officials confirmed over the weekend that human remains had been located on one of the vessels that was struck off the coast of Romania last month in apparent Russian attacks on merchant shipping. Romania and Bulgaria are cooperating on the investigation into the attacks on the ships.

The Varna District Prosecutor’s Office announced the discovery of human remains aboard the Wine Trader, a 6,259 dwt tanker that was struck on October 15 while it was anchored approximately 13 nautical miles off the coast of Romania. The vessel had been near Sulina, reportedly waiting for clearance to proceed on the Danube when it was struck that morning by what appeared to be three drones. The crew called the Romanian authorities for assistance.

Romania was able to rescue five seafarers from the ship, reporting that it was badly fire-damaged. Seven other crewmembers were reported missing.

According to the prosecutor’s office, the ship was accepted for repairs at a ship repair yard in Varna, Bulgaria, and towed to the yard in early November. During an effort to clear the wreckage, it said “severely damaged human remains” were found. It said DNA testing had been ordered to clarify the identities of the deceased.

This story was originally published by The Maritime Executive. Read the full story at The Maritime Executive →