Rio Tinto confirmed that a deck fitter on board its bulk carrier RTM Zheng He was reported missing on 26 December 2024, while the vessel was traveling from China to Western Australia.
A search and rescue operation to find the missing crew member is being conducted over the past days, with Rio Tinto working in collaboration with RTM Zheng He ship and crew manager, Anglo Eastern, and relevant authorities. In addition, the Philippine Coast Guard is leading the search and rescue operation.
Our thoughts are with Gel’s family, friends and colleagues, and we stand with everyone affected by this distressing situation. We are focused on offering all possible support during this difficult time.
…said Jakob Stausholm, Chief Executive, Rio Tinto.
The bulk carrier was in international waters near the Philippines when the deck fitter was reported missing. Rio Tinto is co-operating with the authorities and the ship’s manager on investigations into the incident, as well as conducting its own investigations.
