Fire Erupts on Two LPG Tankers in Bay of Bengal

A fire erupted on two LPG carriers, Captain Nikolas and B-LPG Sophia, during a ship-to-ship transfer of LPG in the Kutubdia Channel in the Bay of Bengal.

Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, and all 36 crew members aboard both vessels are confirmed safe. The incident follows accusations that the LPG on Captain Nikolas may have been sourced from Iran, a country under sanctions.

The fire started around 12:45 AM on October 13 while LPG was being transferred from Captain Nikolas to B-LPG Sophia, with both vessels anchored in the Kutubdia Channel. The fire reportedly broke out during the separation process after a lightering operation.

By 3:30 AM, the fire aboard Captain Nikolas was under control. However, the fire on B-LPG Sophia, which reportedly had less robust safety measures, continued to burn until 12:30 PM, nearly 12 hours after the blaze began.

Despite the efforts of five Navy ships, two Coast Guard vessels, and multiple fire and rescue teams, it took nearly 12 hours to fully control the fire due to the significant amount of LPG on board. Authorities are continuing to monitor the vessels to prevent any re-ignition.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire, including the possibility of sabotage. In a letter dated October 6, the LPG Operators Association of Bangladesh (LOAB) raised concerns that the 70,000 tons of LPG on board the Captain Nikolas may have been sourced from Iran, a sanctioned supplier.

LOAB had urged the Chattogram Port Authority and customs officials to detain the vessels for further investigation.