Authorities intercepted an oil tanker in Malaysia that had escaped the scene of a collision off Singapore last Friday. The supertanker, identified as Ceres I and flagged to Sao Tome and Principe, was tracked to Malaysia’s Bertam floating oil terminal after evading authorities for several days, according to shipping data from LSEG and Kpler.
The oil tanker in Malaysia was intercepted
The incident took place approximately 55 kilometers northeast of Singapore’s Pedra Branca Island, where the Ceres I collided with the Singapore-flagged tanker Hafnia Nilethe Singapore-flagged tanker Hafnia Nile. Following the collision, the Ceres I left the scene without explanation. According to reports, the supertanker turned off its tracking system after the accident, making it difficult to locate. However, it was eventually found in Malaysian waters, being towed by two tugs, according to the Malaysian coast guard.
The industry notes that the Ceres I has carried Iranian oil in the past, and LSEG and Kpler data indicate that the supertanker discharged Iranian crude through ship-to-ship transfers at Malaysia’s Linggi transshipment hub in April. Despite its capacity to carry up to 2 million barrels of oil, LSEG AIS data suggest that the Ceres I was empty at the time of the collision.
Ship-to-ship transfers are a commonly used practice to conceal the origin of the oil, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation. Aerial surveys of the collision area revealed minor traces of an oil spill, adding to environmental concerns.
Research is in progress
For further investigation, both tankers will be towed to safety, although their destination has not been specified. Kama Azri Kamil, acting maritime director of Johor state, said the marine department is investigating the causes of the incident. Fortunately, the 26 crew members of the Ceres I who remained on board to fight the fires are safe, as are the 14 crew members previously evacuated and the 22 crew members of the Hafnia Nile who are safe in Singapore.
The Bertam terminal is located in the South China Sea, off the east coast of the Malaysian peninsula. According to LSEG data, Shanghai Prosperity Ship Management is the management company for Ceres I, although they could not be reached for comment. For its part, Hafnia, manager of the Hafnia Nile, has indicated that it is in talks with Malaysian authorities to coordinate the transfer of its ship.
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Source: MarineLink
Photo: Shutterstock
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