The search continues for cargo containers lost overboard from several vessels off South Africa’s Indian Ocean corridor in the past month.
The CMA CGM Belem, which docked safely at Ngqurha on August 18, 2024, lost nearly 100 containers due to severe weather. The vessel, initially seeking refuge in Maputo Bay, was redirected to Gqeberha. Meanwhile, in the statement on Monday, SAMSA reported that the MSC Antonio had safely arrived in Cape Town on the day following an incident on 28 August 2024, during which severe weather conditions led to the loss of 46 containers overboard and damage to 305 containers on board.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has issued navigational warnings and called for the public to report sightings of any floating containers. Aerial searches have identified some containers, but their origin remains unconfirmed.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) urges all maritime operators and the public to exercise caution. We request that any sightings of containers or debris along the South African coastline be reported immediately to local authorities or SAMSA by contacting the Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre (MRCC) at 021 938 3300 with the position, number, and colour of the containers if observed
… said SAMSA
No injuries were reported from either incident, and the MSC Antonio will undergo repairs in Cape Town. SAMSA continues to monitor and update the situation.
