Update: 10 Bodies Recovered in Nigerian Tug Sinking

The following update regarding the anchor handling tug Jascon 4, which sunk while on static tow of a tanker 15 Nm offshore Escravos, Nigeria on Sunday 26 May, was released by Sea Trucks Group.

The search and rescue operation that has been underway since 26 May 2013 has had to be stopped for safety reasons. The vessel, Jascon 4,which is located some 30 metres under water in an upside down position, has become so unstable that the risk of injury to our rescue divers has become unacceptably high.

During the rescue operation of the last four days, ten bodies have been recovered, one crewmember is still missing and one survivor, Mr. Okene Harrison, was found. Mr. Harrison has been brought to the surface safely and he continues to respond to treatment.

Our divers performed an extremely difficult and dangerous task in the most testing of conditions and we are grateful for their professional service as well as the contributions of many other personnel who gave all their efforts to this challenging recovery operation.

Jacques Roomans, the CEO of West African Ventures commented: “The families of all crew members have been informed of the outcome of the rescue operation and West African Ventures will continue to give all support possible to the families of our deceased and missing colleagues. We extend our deepest sympathy to all of them”.

Original Report: Chevron-Contracted Vessel Sinks Off Nigeria, 12 Crew Missing