Fatal rig incident: Search still underway for two missing workers off Gabon
Borr Drilling continues the search for two people who remain unaccounted for after its rig sank, while supporting affected personnel and families.
Bermuda-headquartered offshore drilling contractor Borr Drilling has confirmed three fatalities following the sinking of its rig off the coast of Gabon. While 110 workers have safely returned ashore out of the 115 on board the jack-up at the time of the tragic incident, search and rescue teams continue efforts to locate two people still missing.
Borr Drilling has provided an update on the Prospector 5 incident, which occurred at approximately 20:37 local time on October 24, 2026, when the rig owner’s 2014-built jack-up experienced a punch through event during preload activities, which led to loss of stability and the subsequent sinking of the rig.
At the time of the incident, the rig was conducting jacking operations offshore Gabon for a planned campaign to support BW Energy's drilling operations at the Dussafu license, with 115 personnel on board.
The drilling contractor has confirmed that 110 out of the 115 personnel have returned ashore and remain in Gabon, where they are being provided with accommodation, care, and ongoing support, with their well-being remaining a priority for the company.
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