A very large crude carrier (VLCC) and a Suezmax tanker collided approximately 15 nautical miles off the coast of Fujairah in the early hours of Tuesday, June 17. The accident occurred around 00:15 local time and resulted in fires on both vessels, though fortunately, there were no reported injuries or environmental damage.
Navigational Error, Not Security-Related
According to regional monitoring centers, the incident is classified as a “navigational incident” and is not linked to the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) emphasized that despite increased electronic interference and regional instability, there is no indication of foul play or security threats connected to this collision.
Initial assessments show that one vessel, carrying approximately 2 million barrels of crude oil bound for Asia, was traveling southbound at 13.1 knots and made a sudden turn, striking another tanker traveling southeast at 4.8 knots.
Fires Controlled and Crews Rescued
Firefighting efforts were swiftly undertaken aboard both ships. Local authorities, including the UAE Coast Guard, successfully evacuated 24 crew members from one of the vessels. The fire was brought under control, and emergency protocols were activated to ensure crew safety and prevent environmental damage.
Monitoring and Investigations Ongoing
Port authorities in Fujairah and Khor Fakkan, along with the Coast Guard, are actively involved in managing the aftermath. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, and maritime traffic continues through the Strait of Hormuz without interruption.
JMIC reports a slight decline in vessel transits through the strait over the past week but noted a modest increase in cargo vessel activity on June 16. The organization continues to monitor the area, particularly for potential GNSS interference, which remains a concern near key ports.
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Source: gCaptain
