A significant maritime emergency unfolded in the Black Sea on Friday. Explosions struck two separate oil tankers near the entrance to the Bosphorus Strait.
Both vessels are identified as part of the “shadow fleet” used to bypass international sanctions. They caught fire, prompting immediate rescue operations by Turkish authorities.
The incidents have raised alarms regarding safety in the volatile waters. Drifting mines remain a persistent hazard in the region.
The Kairos Incident
The first distress call came from the Kairos. This massive 274-meter-long tanker was sailing under the Gambian flag. It was en route from Egypt to the Russian port of Novorossiysk.
The vessel suffered a violent explosion approximately 28 nautical miles off the Turkish coast. According to officials, the ship reported an “external impact” before flames engulfed it.
Turkish authorities dispatched a rapid response team. They successfully evacuated all 25 crew members. However, reports suggest the vessel may be at risk of sinking due to a suspected mine strike.
The Virat Incident
Shortly after, a second tanker, the Virat, reported being struck. This incident occurred further east, approximately 35 nautical miles offshore.
Emergency units rushed to the scene. Heavy smoke was detected in the engine room. Fortunately, officials confirmed that the 20 personnel on board were in good condition.
Shadow Fleet Under Fire
Both the Kairos and the Virat are known to operate within the “shadow fleet.” This network transports Russian oil to circumvent sanctions imposed after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
While the exact cause of the blasts remains under investigation, the Black Sea has become increasingly dangerous. Drifting naval mines have struck several vessels in recent years. Despite the chaos, shipping traffic through the Bosphorus Strait continued without interruption.
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