Weather conditions cause container loss
Reported container overboard incident
SOUTH AFRICA: A New Generation Ultra Large Container Vessel, the CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin, has reported loss of 44 containers overboard having experienced inclement weather off the north-eastern coast of South Africa.
The incident surrounding the Maltese flagged 18000 TEU container vessel occurred in the Indian Ocean earlier in the morning of 9th of July 2024. The vessel has also reported a collapsed container stack and has since diverted to Algoa Bay, where she is currently anchored in sheltered waters to undergo a comprehensive damage assessment of both the vessel and cargo.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has been assured by the vessel's owners that none of the lost containers contain dangerous goods.
A navigation warning has been issued to all vessels operating in the area, advising them to navigate with caution. Vessels and the public are urged to report any sightings of the lost containers to the relevant authorities.
The owners of the CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin are cooperating fully with South African authorities to address the situation and to ensure safe resumption of the vessel’s voyage to her [original] destination port.
PHOTO: Adobe Photostock
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