17 Refugees Rescued by CSM Singapore Managed Tanker

Seventeen refugees have been rescued by a Columbia managed tanker on 15th January 2016.  Whilst the vessel was on route to Kingston, Jamaica, the tanker responded to an alert from M/V Fast Titan requesting assistance with the rescue of seventeen persons from a raft.

Technical Superintendent Mr. Nizamul Islam was immediately notified, and then remained in close contact with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and vessel’s owner.

At 10:58 a radio call was received on VHF 16 from M/V Fast Titan.  At 11:00 all crew were mustered, psn 21 00'5 N; 084 17'9 W.  The rescue mission was completed at 12:25, with all 17 persons: 5 female, 12 male, brought onboard in good health.  The refugees were given food and clothing, after being at sea for 15 days on their raft.

All refugees were disembarked in Kingston, Jamaica, by the local authorities on January 16th and were taken to a Red Cross institution until further repatriation to Cuba.

Mr. Tan Suan Jow, Director of Marine Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, expressed his thanks to Columbia Shipmanagement Singapore, “Please accept our commendations and appreciation to the crew of the Columbia managed tanker for their gallant deeds.”

Columbia Ship Management would like to express its appreciation to Captain Robert Stanescu and his crew for their professionalism and good seamanship.