Belize Port Authority Detains Cargo Vessel Ground Along Turneffe Atoll

According to the Belize Port Authority, upon inspection, the vessel does not pose a threat of pollution at this time, as its hull remains intact. However, damage assessment to the marine environment is still ongoing. Once dislodged from its grounded position, the vessel will remain detained until the investigation and damage assessment concludes. Gaitan tells us more.

Darlin Gaitan

Darlin Gaitan, Acting Port Commissioner, Belize Port Authority

“I believe from initial assessment from the Department of Environment who conducts these assessments there is indication that there is reef damage, so that has its own process in terms of evaluating the extent of that damage and quantifying that for recovery purposes. Next step for us, because we are still in the investigative phases, we are coordinating with the various entities as to what their findings are and how we could put together a case for the government of Belize in this case. So, it is based on the salvage efforts that are going to prompt the Department of Environment to go back and get a quantification of what the damage assessment is. So, that is going to guide their side of the investigation. Of course from our side we do have the safety perspective to look at what safety implications are here, and some of the factors that may have led to this incident and if there were any negligence.”

The thirteen crew members onboard the vessel are safe and cooperating with Belizean authorities. The Belize Port Authority has also duly informed the Flag State of the marine incident and the ship’s status.