MV Solong Master Arrested Over North Sea Collision With Tanker

 

The Captain of the Solong involved in a fiery collision with the tanker Stena Immaculate on Monday has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.

The 59-year old Master of the Portuguese-registered container ship Solong involved in the collision with the US-registered tanker Stena Immaculate has been arrested by Humberside Police in the UK. A search for one missing seafarer from the Solong has been called off.

“Following enquiries undertaken by my team, we have arrested a 59-year-old man on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the collision, this follows the conclusion of search operations by HM Coastguard for the missing crew member of the Solong,” said Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Superintendent Craig Nicholson.

While the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Board (MAIB) is investigating the cause of the accident the Humberside Police has taken the lead in any criminal offences that have arisen from the collision.

“Extensive work has already been carried out, and we are working closely with our partners to understand what happened, and to provide support to all of those affected,” said Nicholson.

The Master of the Solong remains in custody while enquiries are underway and Humberside police “continue speaking with all those involved to establish the full circumstances of the incident”.

Should charges be pressed James Broomhall, Senior Associate at Grosvenor Law commented, “the maximum penalty is life imprisonment, although sentences typically range from a few years to around 10, depending on the severity of the negligence and any aggravating or mitigating factors”.

 

AIS tracking showing the Solong approaching at 16 knots ploughing straight into the side of the anchored Stena Immaculate with no apparent attempt to avoid the collision.

Speaking anonymously an American seafarer from the Stena Immaculate told CBS News that a “massive cargo ship came out of the blue” and the Solong did not stop immediately on colliding with the tanker and flames immediately erupted from the vessel.

Meanwhile fears that the Solong might sink have reduced and HM Coastguard said a tow line had been attached to the drifting container ship and it was now being held in a safer position by a tug.

“There are still some flames visible on the main deck of the Solong and firefighting is focusing on this area. A salvage plan is being developed with the appointed salvors on scene,” said Assistant Chief Coastguard, John Craig.

“The MCA’s (Maritime & Coastguard Agency) concern in relation to tanks on the Solong has reduced with tugs now able to work in close vicinity.”

Meanwhile the fire is no longer visible on the Stena Immaculate. “A second salvage company has been engaged for the Stena Immaculate, which remains at anchor, with safety tugs on scene. The fire on Stena Immaculate is greatly reduced with no flames visible,” Craig said.