Tanker Damaged by Russian Attack Breaks Towline Prompting SAR Operation

A product tanker damaged in September by a Russian attack has broken free of its tow, prompting a SAR operation and efforts to recapture the drifting vessel. Romanian officials reported the rescue of three crewmembers from one of the towing tugs, while Bulgaria reports it is monitoring the tanker as it drifts in the Black Sea.

Two Turkish tugs, Ramazan Bey (339 gross tons) and Ayaz Bey (317 gross tons), issued a distress call overnight while off the coast of Romania, towing the derelict tanker toward Turkey. According to the reports, the tugs encountered heavy seas during a Black Sea storm, and the towline parted. They reportedly were able to restore the line once, but in the process, the Ayaz Bey hit the tanker and was heavily damaged. Romanian officials said it was in danger of sinking.

The crew of the Ayaz Bey issued the distress call, and Romania dispatched rescue boats. Weather conditions, including heavy wind along with the very rough seas, prevented Romania from launching an aerial rescue. Three crewmembers from the tug were evacuated to a Dutch-flagged tugboat, Odin, which was also operating in the area. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Romania, however, reports four other crewmembers refused evacuation, saying they did not require assistance. They reportedly brought the damaged tug to an anchorage.

Bulgarian officials, however, report the Mentor is again drifting in the storm and approaching their waters. They ordered the second tug, Ramazan Bey, to stand by the drifting vessel while Bulgarian officials are coordinating a response to the situation.

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