On July 19, 2024, Singapore's navy successfully rescued crew members from two large oil tankers that caught fire approximately 34 miles northeast of the Singaporean island of Pedra Branca. The incident occurred near the world's largest refueling port, highlighting the strategic importance of Singapore as Asia's oil trading hub.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) received reports of a fire onboard the Singapore-flagged tanker, Hafnia Nile, and the Sao Tome and Principe-flagged tanker, Ceres I, at 6:15 a.m. The cause of the fires remains unclear at this time.
In a swift response, the Singapore navy deployed the frigate RSS Supreme to the scene. The crew members were successfully rescued, and immediate medical assistance was provided. Images shared by the Singapore Air Force depicted the rescued individuals being airlifted to safety and subsequently transferred to a nearby hospital for further evaluation.
Singapore's strategic location as a major oil trading hub and the world's largest bunkering port underscores the critical role it plays in global maritime trade. The surrounding waters serve as vital trade routes connecting Asia with Europe and the Middle East, emphasizing the significance of maintaining safety and security in the region.
