A reefer cargo ship made a navigation error after leaving the southern Japanese port of Hakata near Fukuoka, hitting the seawall at the entrance to the port.
As a result, the bow of the vessel became stuck on the breakwater with reports of a small oil leak. The Japan Coast Guard responded by stringing a barrier, claiming that the oil leak from the vessel had been stopped and that it was washing out to sea away from the port.
According to the Japan Coast Guard, “Lady Rosemary” departed the pier on November 28, and approximately 15 minutes later struck the breakwater.
More reports indicate that it was a clear night and calm seas, while the 22 crew members onboard the vessel were not injured.
Currently, the Fukuoka Coast Guard Office is investigating the cause of the accident and is considering charging the ship’s operator on suspicion of professional negligence endangering sea traffic.
The port remained open and by November 29 salvage crews were on the scene attempting to pull the vessel off the breakwater.
