A video has emerged showing a container full of biscuits being looted by local residents, including children, after it washed ashore in Xhora, Eastern Cape, on Tuesday, 3 September 2024.
The container is suspected to be one of 46 lost overboard from the container vessel MSC Antonia, which ran into stormy weather off the coast of Port St Johns last week.
The MSC Antonia, a container ship sailing under the Liberian flag, was en route from Colombo to New York when it encountered severe weather about 29 nautical miles northeast of Port St Johns. The storm resulted in the loss of 46 containers overboard and damage to an additional 305 containers, according to the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA).
Despite the loss of cargo, the MSC Antonia continued its voyage safely, with no injuries reported among the crew. The vessel has since arrived at the Port of Cape Town, where it will undergo a thorough assessment, and damaged cargo will be discharged if necessary.
SAMSA has issued a navigation warning to all vessels in the vicinity, urging caution due to the potential hazards posed by the lost containers. The public has been advised to report any sightings of containers or debris to the Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre, as the search for the lost cargo continues.
This incident follows another significant loss of cargo in South African waters last month when the CMA CGM Belem, a Malta-flagged container ship, lost 99 containers near the Port of Richards Bay due to severe weather. The vessel initially sought refuge in Maputo Bay before being redirected to Gqeberha for repairs.
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Aerial searches for the lost containers from both vessels are ongoing, with SAMSA emphasizing the importance of locating any floating debris to ensure the safety of maritime operations and protect the environment.
SAMSA has also warned the public against looting, highlighting the potential dangers of handling cargo washed ashore. “We strongly urge the public to avoid handling any debris and instead contact the authorities, who will arrange for the safe salvage and disposal of the wreckage,” SAMSA stated.
As the investigation progresses, SAMSA remains focused on ensuring the safety of maritime traffic and preventing environmental damage from the lost containers. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
