Chemicals Tanker Capsizes off Japan
Five people are unaccounted for after a South Korea-flagged chemicals tanker with 11 people on board capsized in rough seas off Japan, according to the coastguard.
Rescue Efforts
Six crew members, including two South Koreans, eight Indonesians, and one Chinese, have been rescued so far. The coastguard is actively searching for the remaining five individuals.
Cargo Information
The tanker was carrying acrylic acid, and there is concern about potential leaks into the ocean. The conditions of those rescued are currently unknown as they were taken to the hospital for treatment.
A distress call was received from the Keoyoung Sun chemical tanker, reporting its tilt and seeking refuge near Mutsure Island, off Japan’s southwestern coast.
Rescue Operation
The Japan Coast Guard initiated a rescue operation after receiving the distress call early on Wednesday. The vessel, built in 1996 and measuring 69 meters in length, was identified as the Keoyoung Sun.
Footage from NHK showed the overturned hull of the ship and a life raft, with rescue efforts underway amidst heavy waves.
The ship’s operator has not provided any comments regarding the incident.
