Navy, SLPA tow disabled ship to deep sea

Chaminda PERERA

The Sri Lankan Navy jointly with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) is involved in the towing of disabled Turkish ship to the deep sea off the country's maritime boarder after the authorities found that sulphuric acid was leaking from the tanker.

This ship carrying over 6,250 of sulphuric acid has developed defects in its cargo tanks on its way to the next port of call in India. The Naval officer having verified the legitimacy of the ship, launched a salvage operation yesterday to rescue the ship.

Marine Environmental Protection Authority Chairman Ranjith Kularatne said the leakage of sulphuric acid to the ocean has had an environmental impact and the authority would take legal action against the company that owns the vessel.

"The Authority is empowered to take legal action against anyone who is involved in polluting the ocean," he said.

The crew of the ship was rescued and handed over to the Harbour Police at Trincomalee by the Navy.

The Police yesterday produced 19 members of the crew including its captain before Trincomalee Acting Magistrate who kept them under the custody of vessel's local agent till he Marine Environment Protection Authority takes legal action against them.