It was reported on the morning of the 13th October that the 57,000 dwt Bulk Carrier EMERALD STAR laden with Indonesian Nickel Ore sank in the Philippines Sea.
The cause of the casualty is presently unknown however the INTERCARGO Secretariat has requested further information from the Flag and Class regarding the casualty and we will update Members as information becomes available.
In the meantime, we would urge Members to exercise extreme caution with Nickel Ore from Indonesia.
Update 17 October 2017
The Hong Kong Marine Department has issued a circular letter “Carrying Nickel Ore in Bulk” (Ref SD/S 800/9 dated 17 October 2017) to Shipowners, Ship Managers, Ship Operators, Masters and Officers. The letter highlights the importance of following the IMSBC Code and provides some safety measures related to the carriage of Nickel Ore. The circular can be downloaded below.
