The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Tuesday (10 June) said fire-fighting operations are ongoing onboard the Singapore-registered container vessel Wan Hai 503, off the coast of India. 

Manifold Times previously reported of a fire onboard the vessel approximately 80 km southwest of Azhikkal, Kerala, India on 9 June. The Indian Coast Guard reported an explosion on the vessel. 

MPA said two additional fire-fighting vessels deployed by the Indian authorities and the vessel owner were scheduled to arrive onsite last evening to support the ongoing response.

“Search and rescue (SAR) operations are ongoing to locate the four missing crew. Aerial surveillance is also being conducted in support of the SAR efforts,” MPA said in a statement. 

The 18 crew who were earlier rescued have safely arrived at New Mangalore Port. Six injured crew have been transferred to a shore medical facility. Three have since been discharged.

MPA has been working with the vessel’s classification society and the Indian authorities to provide technical information to support the Indian authorities’ ongoing efforts to stabilise the situation and manage the fire. This includes information to guide fire containment measure, assess fire conditions onboard, and monitor the vessel’s stability.

“MPA is monitoring the situation in close coordination with the Indian authorities, including supporting the assessment of the vessel’s structural integrity and the potential for environmental impact,” it added. 

Related: Four missing after explosion on Singapore-registered boxship “Wan Hai 503” off India

Photo credit: Indian Coast Guard
Published: 11 June, 2025

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Monday (9 June) was informed that there was a fire onboard the Singapore-registered container vessel Wan Hai 503, approximately 80 km southwest of Azhikkal, Kerala, India. 

According to a social media post, the Indian Coast Guard said it quickly responded after an “explosion” on the vessel with four of its vessels diverted for rescue. 

MPA said the incident occurred on 9 June 2025 at about 1230 hours (Singapore Time). The vessel is managed by Wan Hai Lines (Singapore) Pte Ltd.

“There were 22 crew members onboard. Eighteen crew members have been accounted for and were transferred from lifeboats to a passing vessel. There are no Singaporeans onboard,” MPA said in a statement. 

In a later update, MPA said it has been notified by the Indian authorities that 18 crew were safely transferred from lifeboats to an Indian Navy ship, which is en route to New Mangalore Port.

Four crew — two from Taiwan, one from Myanmar, and one from Indonesia — remain missing. Search and rescue (SAR) operations are ongoing.

Of the 18 rescued crew, five are reported to have sustained injuries. The injured crew are receiving medical treatment onboard the Indian Navy ship en route to port.

As at 2030 hours on 9 June 2025 (Singapore Time), a total of 3 vessels have been deployed by the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy to support the SAR operations. Aircraft have also been deployed to assist.

⁠MPA expressed its appreciation to the Indian authorities for their swift response in recovering the 18 crew and for their support for the ongoing SAR operations.

A MPA team is en route to support the Indian authorities.

“Our thoughts are with the crew and their families during this difficult time. Updates will be provided when further information becomes available,” MPA added. 

Photo credit: Indian Coast Guard
Published: 10 June, 2025

A Hong Kong-flagged bulk carrier was boarded by four perpetrators while transiting eastbound through the Philip Channel, Singapore Strait, approximately 3.7 nautical miles northwest of Kapalajernih Island, Indonesia according to Ambrey Analytics, the digital intelligence arm of the Ambrey risk management group, on Tuesday (27 April).

One of the suspects was reportedly armed with a “gun-like object” and the other three were armed with bladed weapons. 

“At the time of writing, no injuries or stolen items were reported. The bulk carrier was underway at 6.5kn and had an estimated freeboard of 6.4m when the incident occurred,” Ambrey Analytics said.

“At the time of writing, the vessel was observed continuing its voyage to Singapore. Ambrey is investigating and will provide updates when available.”

Ambrey Analytics said crews transiting the Singapore Strait with freeboards lower than 10 metre are advised they are at heightened risk. 

“Crews should lock down access to the accommodation block and ship’s stores. It is recommended to carry out partnered deck patrols. Do not confront criminals,” it added.

Photo credit: Ambrey Analytics
Published: 27 May, 2025