According to news, a devastating explosion on the bulk carrier Toro Rosso resulted in the deaths of seven crew members and numerous injuries.
As informed, Moroccan authorities are investigating the incident involving the 91,384 DWT bulker, which was chartered by an Ethiopian company.
The explosion occurred as the vessel approached the Port of Jorf Lasfar to load phosphate fertilizers. Port authorities received news of the blast and subsequent engine room fire on the morning of May 30, 2024. Positioned 8 nautical miles offshore, the rescue efforts faced significant challenges.
The Panama-registered bulk carrier, built in 1997, originally operated for K-Line in the 1990s and has changed ownership multiple times. It underwent its last repair and maintenance in 2022 and had previously been detained for safety reasons.
According to port authorities, the ship had 28 crew members on board, primarily from Syria. Three bodies were recovered from the vessel, and a pilot boat transported twelve severely burned and injured individuals to shore. Rescue operations were supported by tugs and two helicopters. Four crew members succumbed to their injuries in the hospital, while at least nine others are receiving treatment.
Jorf Lasfar, a major port on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is a hub for phosphate, fertilizers, and other chemicals. Following the incident, port officials reiterated the strict safety protocols in place for handling hazardous cargo.
As explained, the cause of the explosion is still unknown, and an investigation is ongoing.