Investigations in relation to the sinking of a container ship, Southern Phoenix in the Suva Harbour is expected to commence today.
The cargo containers are still floating in the Suva Harbour this morning, however they have been secured with ropes.
Meanwhile, Fijivillage has received information yesterday that the ship’s agent had informed concerned parties that the Southern Phoenix started to take in water while they were waiting for departure at 8am yesterday at the Suva Wharf.
The crew were unable to control the situation as the vessel continued to take in more water, further listing to the port side.
We have also received information that for the safety of the crew, integrity of the Suva Wharf and safety of the users of Suva Harbour, the crew had to evacuate and the lines were cut and the vessel was towed towards a safer position as she continued to take in more water.
Cargo containers were being loaded on the ship when the load became unbalanced and the ship tilted on one side.
