With huge breaking surf crashing all around, the 165-meter bulk carrier Kiani Satu was pulled free from a South African beach this weekend by the SMIT Amandla, a large ocean-going tug. It seems however, that although the beach has now been spared from further environmental damage, the ship itself is doomed to a watery grave.
South Africa Maritime Safety Authority spokesperson, Captain Nigel Campbell, notes that the SMIT Amandla is currently making best speed south toward deep water as the sea continues to leak into the vessel.
In a report obtained by South African news company Algoa FM, Captain Campbell notes,
“I have just now flown back from the ship, she is 70 nautical miles off shore in about 300 meters of water. We had a salvage team on board during an assessment this morning, but from the plane I could tell that there is more water going into the ship. I have told them to take the salvors off and then the tug is to make best possible speed south. I think she is going to sink.”
We have called Campbell for further comment, however we have been unable to reach him.
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