Detained Russian Ship Kuzma Minin To Be Moved Within Falmouth Harbour
The Russian vessel Kuzma Minin is to be moved to a more sheltered spot within Falmouth Harbour later today. Three tugs and a port pilot will work with the crew in the move which is a purely precautionary measure. Although a Port State Inspection by MCA Surveyors confirmed a breach in one of the fuel tanks, there is still no reported pollution. The vessel remains under detention by the MCA and directed not to leave Falmouth Bay until acceptable repairs have been made.
Once the repairs have taken place, a follow-up inspection will be made before the vessel can be released. The vessel has full electrical and engine power, and all crew onboard are safe and well. The Secretary of State’s Representative Maritime Salvage & Intervention and the Environment Group continue to monitor the situation.
After a successful re-float the MV Kuzma Minin was assisted to a sheltered anchorage within Falmouth Bay where it will remain for the coming few days. A Port State Inspection by MCA Surveyors took place in the early evening of 18 December and confirmed a breach in one of the fuel tanks. Tank readings indicate the tank has filled with water as a consequence of the grounding, however no pollution has been reported.
The vessel has subsequently been detained by the MCA and directed not to leave Falmouth Bay until acceptable repairs have been made. Further inspections by divers and Class are also expected to take place. Once the repairs have taken place, a follow-up inspection will be made before the vessel can be released.
The vessel has full electrical and engine power, and all crew onboard are safe and well. The SOSREP is liaising with the owners of the vessel and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has also been sent to Falmouth. The SOSREP, MCA, Falmouth Harbour, Cornwall County Council and the Standing Environment Group continue to liaise and monitor the situation.
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