MTUKOMBOZI

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Explosion and fire on tanker

A fire erupted on the deck of the 'Ukombozi' at Pemba Island, on Oct 11, 2019. The vessel then sailed to the Zanzibar port, where it was to be inspected. After the arrival, the authorities inspected the vessel whilst anchoring at Mtoni area on Oct 14. The routine pre sail exercise was on going and the gas freeing operation was carried out by the crew on the deck. As they were placing the air blowers on the cargo tanks manholes for the intended task, suddenly one of the air blowers placed on cargo tank No. 3 port side exploded with a huge flame, after it had been powered with electricity from the socket. The flames from the gases emanating from the cargo spread throughout the deck burning paint works, mast, pipes, cables, tank and injuring the three crew members. The fire was extinguished by the crew after 20 minutes using portable fire extinguishers CO² and powder. Later sea water was pumped into the tank. The cause of fire appeared to be of short circuit of the air blower placed on the cargo tank No. 3 at port side. Two crew members were reported to be expired due to the incident.