FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12 September 2024; The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is aware of the container that washed ashore on the East Coast near Port St Johns last week. In addition, SAMSA has been informed of pharmaceutical bottles containing pills that have been washing ashore in the Port Alfred, Kenton, Cannon Rocks, and Boknes areas since Monday, 9 September 2024.
In recent weeks, there have been several incidents involving the loss of containers at sea, including those involving the MV Benjamin Franklin, the MV CMA CGM Belem, MV. Maersk Stepnica, MV Rio Grande Express, MSC Antonia and the MV Ultra Galaxy who suffered a cargo shift, abandoned, and eventually ran aground off the West Coast.
These incidents highlight the risks posed by severe weather and the challenges of responding to coastal shipping emergencies. SAMSA has been actively involved in response efforts to ensure minimal environmental impact. In terms of the identification, analysis and safe disposal of the pharmaceutical products SAMSA is working through the Incident Management which includes the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), South African Police Service (SAPS), Eastern Cape Disaster Management and the South African Health Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).
The loss of containers at sea poses potential risks to navigation and the environment, and efforts are underway to monitor and address any hazards that may arise. SAMSA is currently working to identify the vessel responsible for the pharmaceutical bottles washing ashore. The organization is closely monitoring the coastline in collaboration with local authorities to track any further containers or goods that may wash ashore.
A navigation warning to all vessels operating along the East Coast remains active, advising them to navigate with caution. Vessels and the public are urged to report any sightings of the lost containers to the relevant authorities by contacting the Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre (MRCC) at 021 938 3300 with the position, container number, and colour of the containers if observed.
The owners of the vessels are fully cooperating with SAMSA and other relevant authorities and have committed to undertaking clean-up operations along the coastline should any contamination or further cargo loss occur.
Issued by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA).
For further information, please contact:
Tebogo Ramatjie
Phone: 0673255276
WhatsApp: 0829460737
