GLOBAL mining group Rio Tinto has confirmed that a crew member from one of its bulk carriers was reported missing while the vessel was travelling to Western Australia from China.
The mining giant confirmed in a statement “with great sadness” that a deck fitter by the name of Gel Aguaviva on board RTM Zheng He was reported missing on 26 December.
The 299 metre length-overall bulk carrier, flagged to Singapore, was reportedly travelling in international waters in the Sulu Sea near the Philippines when Mr Aguaviva went missing.
According to MarineTraffic, RTM Zheng He departed the Chinese port of Huanghua on 18 December, and is scheduled to arrive in the Western Australian port of Dampier tomorrow (4 December).
Media outlets have reported it is understood that Mr Aguaviva was last seen on the port side main deck of the ship, wearing a dark blue reflectorised suit at 1125 on 26 December.
The Philippines Coast Guard reportedly deployed BRP Capones to conduct the SAR operation while also broadcasting a general alert, while two other bulkers in the vicinity, HL Hope and Federal Sutton, reportedly joined in the search
Rio Tinto said an extensive and ongoing search and rescue operation to find Mr Aguaviva has been conducted over the past seven days, with the company working in collaboration with the ship and crew manager, Anglo Eastern, as well as relevant authorities.
It further confirmed that the Philippine Coast Guard is leading the search and rescue operation.
Rio Tinto chief executive Jakob Stausholm said, “Our thoughts are with Gel’s family, friends and colleagues, and we stand with everyone affected by this distressing situation. We are focused on offering all possible support during this difficult time”.
“We would like to thank everyone involved in the search for their tireless efforts.”
Rio Tinto said it is co-operating fully with relevant authorities and the ship’s manager on investigations into the incident, as well as conducting its own investigations.
