Navy rescues 20 crew members after vessel fire on Calabar Channel

By Zainab Uzomah

The Nigerian Navy has rescued 20 crew members from the Motor Vessel Chimba Express after it caught fire along the Calabar Channel on Monday.

According to the Navy, NNS Ose was on routine patrol when it received a distress call around 13:00 local time. The vessel, travelling from Gabon to Calabar with scrap materials and other cargo, had 21 crew members on board — 14 Nigerians and seven Cameroonians.

When naval personnel arrived, they found thick smoke coming from the ship. Sailors rescued those who had abandoned the vessel as well as others still trapped on deck, using life buoys before administering first aid.

The ship’s chief engineer, who is believed to have jumped overboard fearing an explosion, remains missing. A search-and-rescue operation has been launched.

The operation was supported by personnel from Forward Operating Base Ibaka, Naval Security Station 030 Houseboat and local fishermen. NNS Ose also deployed portable pumps to tackle the fire, which damaged the midship and aft sections.

Lieutenant Commander K.K. Ahunanya, speaking on behalf of the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship Victory, said the Navy remained committed to safeguarding seafarers and maritime assets in line with its mission.