Collision Near Gijang Port Results in One Fatality, Two Missing
An investigation is underway following a collision between an LPG tanker and a fishing vessel off the coast of Gijang, Busan. The incident, which occurred on June 25th, resulted in the death of one crew member and left two others missing. Authorities have detained the captain and a third officer of the LPG tanker for questioning.
Investigation Details Released
The Ulsan Coast Guard announced on June 27th that they have taken into custody the captain of the 992-ton LPG tanker, identified as Mr./Ms. A (60s), and the third officer, Mr./Ms. B (30s). They are being investigated on suspicion of professional negligence, leading to the vessel’s capsizing and subsequent sinking.
The collision reportedly took place around 10:10 AM on June 25th, approximately 42.6 kilometers south of Daebyeon Port in Gijang County. The LPG tanker, Gas Broad Way, was navigating when it collided with the 79-ton fishing vessel Je3 Dongho, which had eight crew members on board. The Coast Guard believes the collision was caused by the LPG tanker’s failure to maintain a proper lookout.
Crew Members Involved and Rescue Efforts
Mr./Ms. A is identified as the overall person in charge of the LPG tanker, while Mr./Ms. B was reportedly on the bridge, operating the vessel at the time of the accident. Following the collision, the fishing vessel capsized, throwing all eight crew members into the water. While six were rescued, one tragically died. The remaining two individuals, both Indonesian nationals, are still missing. The Coast Guard has deployed patrol vessels and helicopter units to continue the search for the missing crew members.
Safety Measures and Vessel Departure
The Coast Guard had initially imposed a sailing ban on the fishing vessel due to concerns about its cargo of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and its potential volatility. This measure was lifted on June 26th, as the danger of prolonged anchorage was deemed a significant risk. The fishing vessel, which was carrying butane, a substance similar in composition to LPG, utilized LPG tankers for transport. The vessel has since departed for Japan.
A Coast Guard official stated that arrest warrants are expected to be requested for Mr./Ms. A and Mr./Ms. B soon, taking into consideration the severity of the casualties.
