Chemical Tanker Capsizes in Japan
A South Korean-flagged chemical tanker capsized off the coast of Shimonoseki city in Yamaguchi province, according to state television NHK. The 870-ton tanker named “KEOYOUNG SUN” anchored to the northwest of Mutsure Island before capsizing. Reports from the South Korea-based Yonhap agency indicated that the tanker was secured due to strong winds and high waves.
There were a total of 11 crew members on board at the time of the incident, with 8 Indonesians, 2 South Koreans, and 1 Chinese. Fortunately, 6 crew members were rescued, but 5 remain missing. Search and rescue efforts are currently ongoing with the help of aircraft and patrol ships, as reported by local officials cited by Kyodo agency.
The Japan Coast Guard confirmed that the 68.8 meters long and 10.6 meters wide tanker was carrying 980 tons of acrylic acid at the time of the capsizing. The local meteorological office had issued warnings for strong winds and high waves in the area where the incident occurred.
As the search continues for the missing crew members, authorities are working diligently to ensure their safety and the mitigation of any potential environmental impact from the capsized tanker. Updates on the situation are expected as the investigation progresses.
