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Investigation underway following explosion on oil vessel in Mombasa

A part of the ship that caught fire.

By Farhiya Hussein | Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Authorities in Mombasa are currently investigating a powerful explosion that occurred on an oil vessel stationed near the African Marine Terminal in Liwatoni, Likoni. The blast, felt as far as two kilometers away, ignited a fire causing significant damage to sections of the ship known as East Wind II.

Authorities in Mombasa are currently investigating a powerful explosion that occurred on an oil vessel stationed near the African Marine Terminal in Liwatoni, Likoni. The blast, felt as far as two kilometers away, ignited a fire causing significant damage to sections of the ship known as East Wind II.

Immediate response teams, including tugboats and fire brigades from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), swiftly moved in to contain the fire. Evacuation procedures were enacted promptly by rescue teams, though it remains uncertain if there were any casualties.

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Mombasa Central Police OCPD Maxwel Agoro is overseeing the investigation, providing assurances of a comprehensive report to be disclosed at a later time.

Eyewitnesses described a fiery explosion followed by billowing black smoke, with metal rods propelled into the air from the vessel, prompting bystanders to flee for safety.

The incident raises concerns about safety protocols within the maritime sector, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and to prevent future occurrences.