Singapore: Bunker spill during refuelling operation off Changi, says MPA

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Tuesday (29 October) said it has been informed of an oil spill off Changi during a bunkering operation between a Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier and a licensed bunker tanker.

The incident was reported to occur at about 5.40pm on 28 October and the bunkering operations ceased immediately.

MPA craft arrived at about 5.50pm and sprayed dispersants. Relevant government agencies have been alerted to keep a lookout for any oil sighting along the shores.

In a later statement, MPA confirmed that oil which overflowed during a bunkering operation from the receiving Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier INES CORRADO had stopped.

“An estimated 5 tonnes of oil was reported to have overflowed. MPA patrol craft had sprayed dispersants,” MPA said, in response to media queries. 

As at 8 am on 29 October, there is no oil sighted at sea in the vicinity of the incident and ashore.

As a precautionary measure, a Current Buster has been deployed off Changi to recover oil on water, if sighted. 

The Malaysian authorities have been alerted to keep a lookout for oil sightings.

MPA said it will be investigating the incident.

Photo credit: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Published: 29 October 2024