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Authorities in Taiwan are searching for a 47-year-old Chinese seafarer who went missing after the Panamanian-flagged product tanker \u201cLiquid Gem\u201d ran aground near Taichung Port amid harsh weather conditions on December 7, 2024.<\/p>\n
The incident occurred after the vessel lost power and dragged its anchor during a storm.<\/p>\n
According to the Taiwan Coast Guard, the vessel, managed by Hong Kong-based Grand Dragon Shipping, began drifting uncontrollably toward the shore late on Saturday night.<\/p>\n
Radar surveillance detected the tanker moving at speeds of up to 2 knots, prompting an urgent response when it was half a mile west of Taichung Harbour.<\/p>\n
The Liquid Gem, which was anchored offshore awaiting clearance to load diesel, reported a main engine failure as it battled high waves and wind reaching Force 10.<\/p>\n
Unable to stop the tanker\u2019s drift, the Coast Guard attempted various rescue methods but decided not to use boats or helicopters due to strong winds and shallow waters.<\/p>\n
With the vessel just 30 meters from the shore, the authorities employed a crane from the port to evacuate 12 of the 15 crew members. The remaining three crew members jumped overboard in fear of capsizing.<\/p>\n
Two were rescued, while the Chinese crew member remains missing.<\/p>\n
The National Airborne Service Corps launched a search operation for the missing seafarer early on December 8. Local media reports identified the missing individual as a 47-year-old Chinese national.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, environmental teams have deployed oil booms and absorbent pads around the grounded tanker to prevent any potential pollution.<\/p>\n
Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) reported that the 5,400-dwt vessel, built in 2015 is resting at a 15-degree angle near wave-dissipating blocks.<\/p>\n
While the tanker was empty of cargo, it was carrying approximately 110 tons of fuel oil, raising concerns about a potential spill. TIPC said that oil extraction operations were scheduled to begin on December 10 to reduce the risk of contamination.<\/p>\n
The vessel had been anchored offshore since late November after undergoing an inspection earlier that month.<\/p>\n
The Liquid Gem is a 100-meter-long tanker operated by Grand Dragon Shipping. Records reveal it underwent two port state control<\/a> inspections in 2023, with deficiencies reported in firefighting equipment, emergency escape devices, and the main engine.<\/p>\n Authorities have described the situation as stable for now, but the search for the missing seafarer continues, alongside efforts to secure the tanker and prevent environmental damage.<\/p>\n