Crew of Dutch Vessel Vox Maxima Charged Over Major Oil Spill

Four crew members from the Dutch-flagged ship Vox Maxima face charges following a significant oil spill that took place in Singapore earlier this year. The charges, announced on 6th November, allege that the crew failed to fulfill their responsibilities.

The incident happened on 14th June, when Vox Maxima reportedly lost steering control, causing a collision with the Marine Honour, a vessel docked at Pasir Panjang Terminal in Singapore. 

The collision caused damage to one of Vox Maxima's cargo tanks, resulting in a spill of approximately 400 tons of Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil into the sea.

An initial investigation found 13 issues aboard the vessel including three serious deficiencies that required the ship to be detained until they were fixed.

The captain and three crew members are being charged under the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 for neglecting their duties. Their court hearing has been postponed to 4th December.