MARITIME ACCIDENT: How BW LESMES encountered trouble, collide with BURRI in Suez
By Our Correspondent
BW LESMES was the first to run into trouble after she encountered steering issue before colliding with BURRI, according to FleetMon.
It stated: “According to latest data and reports, BW LESMES was the first to run into trouble after she encountered steering issue. Tanker stuck into embankment but was freed and was about to resume movement, when she was contacted by BURRI, which also lost steering. So it was not collision, it was a contact.
“BW LESMES resumed moving, while BURRI remained on site, positioned alongside embankment – not because she was damaged, but because she was still having steering problem. BURRI, as BW LESMES, is in ballast, though Russian media still claim BURRI is carrying Russian oil.
“BURRI started moving at around 0720 UTC, most probably under tow. At around 1030 UTC tanker exited Canal and was anchored at Suez anchorage. Some Russian media say BURRI is carrying Russian crude, loaded at Primorsk Russia, bound for China.
“BW LESMES remains anchored; photos appeared of BW LESMES after collision – looks like she sustained minor damages in fore area.”
It also stated: “LNG tanker BW LESMES and Aframax crude oil tanker BURRI collided in Suez Canal at around 1930 UTC Aug 22 near mark 142, while both were transiting Canal in southbound convoy. Both tankers after collision were berthed or positioned along Canal embankment near collision site.
“At around 0020 UTC August 23 BW LESMES resumed moving, probably towage, and as of 0550 UTC Aug 23 was maneuvering at Suez anchorage, Red sea, with at least 2 tugs assisting her. Understood she’s to anchor.
“BURRI as of 0550 UTC remains in the same position, with at least 4 tugs at her side. Understood both tankers are damaged, probably heavily. Traffic looks like restricted or stopped.”
