Six Missing as Two Barges Collide Off Hong Kong

Photo: View of Stanley Peninsula in the southeast of Hong Kong Island. On the left, Beaufort Island and Po Toi Island (behind Beaufort), are visible.

The search continues in waters south of Hong Kong for six crewmen, missing since a collision between two mainland barges in thick fog near Beaufort Island last night.

The two barges collided in the waters south of Bluff Head near Beaufort Island at about 7:50 p.m. on Thursday. One of the barges - carrying construction waste – sank instantly. Five of the 11 crewmembers were rescued from the water, two of whom were injured, one seriously. The other vessel remained afloat after the collision and no one onboard was hurt.

The search for the missing crew has involved the Marine Department, Fire Services, Marine Police and the Government Flying Services. Thick fog had made it difficult to deploy helicopters. Divers and rescue officials have found no signs of life. Weather conditions were not extreme at the time of the collision, but visibility was extremely low because of the mist and fog.

The Marine Department put out a reminder on Thursday for vessels to proceed at a safe speed and to exercise extreme caution because of low visibility.