An oil tanker and a cargo ship collided off the coast of eastern England on Monday, igniting fires on both vessels and prompting a major rescue operation, emergency services confirmed.
Rescue efforts underway
Britain’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency reported that multiple lifeboats, a coast guard rescue helicopter, and a coast guard plane were dispatched to the North Sea crash site. Nearby vessels equipped with firefighting capabilities also joined the operation.
Crew members reportedly abandon ships
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) stated that some crew members reportedly abandoned their vessels after the collision. “There were reports that a number of people had abandoned the vessels following a collision and there were fires on both ships,” the RNLI confirmed. Three lifeboats, along with the coast guard, were engaged in search and rescue efforts.
Ongoing investigation
Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the collision or provide details on potential casualties. Emergency teams continue to monitor the situation as efforts to control the fires and ensure crew safety remain a priority.
(With AP inputs)
More updates to follow
About The Author
