Tugboat Sinks After Collision with Containership in Callao

A collision between the tugboat Westport and the containership A. Idefix on March 14 in the Callao Sea resulted in the sinking of the tugboat and left six crew members injured. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the incident, which remains unclear. 

Details of the Incident 

The accident took place at approximately 8:30 AM local time, when the Westport collided with the A. Idefix. The impact caused a hole to be punctured in the hull of the tugboat, leading it to list to the starboard side. Shortly after, the vessel sank stern-first into the water. 

Following the incident, a distress report was sent to VTS Callao, which swiftly coordinated the deployment of a Zodiac rescue boat to assist in the evacuation of the injured crew. Civil Defence and Disaster Risk Management teams from the Municipality of Callao also responded promptly to the accident. The injured crew members were safely transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. 

Environmental Precautions and Investigation 

Authorities have deployed containment barriers around the site of the sinking as a precaution against potential pollution, given that the tugboat is now completely submerged. 

While the exact cause of the accident has yet to be determined, dense fog in the area at the time of the collision is being considered as a possible contributing factor. The National Police and the Navy are working together to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.