MMEA detects oil leakage from engine room of capsized “MV Tung Sung”

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency on Thursday (27 July) said the search and rescue operation of the capsized domestic cargo ship MV Tung Sung is now focused on turning over the ship and searching for the remaining four missing crew. 

“Work in righting the vessel is underway starting today. Until this evening, the ship has not been able to turn it back to its original position and will resume tomorrow morning,” MMEA said in a statement. 

“In addition, the contractor appointed by the shipowner to reposition the vessel, has informed that there is an oil leakage in the engine room area and spots of oil have started to emerge in surrounding waters.”

KM Kota Kinabalu and Permata Hydro vessels from the Malaysia Marine Department were scheduled to be deployed for monitoring and control of the oil leakage in the affected areas starting from 8am today.

Manifold Times previously reported the Sarawak MMEA stating rescuers involved in the search and rescue operation of MV Tung Sung recovered four bodies about 15 nautical miles northwest of Pulau Burung. 

On 20 July, MMEA activated the operation at 1.20pm following reports of MV Tung Sung sinking and overturning in the Subuyau Waters on the same day. 

MMEA said it received a report at 9.40am that the ship could not be tracked and contacted and a patrol vessel was sent to its last location about 12 nautical miles northeast of Tanjung PO. Nine crew members were reported missing.

Related: Malaysia: Rescuers recover four bodies after cargo ship “MV Tung Sung” capsizes

Photo credit: Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency
Published: 28 July, 2023