World · Singapore Bureau
Fire on Chinese cargo vessel kills 20, five still missing
A major fire broke out on the Ocean Melody, a moored cargo ship undergoing maintenance in China, claiming at least 20 lives. Five crew members remain unaccounted for, while 17 others were successfully evacuated from the vessel.
LSN Singapore ·
A devastating fire engulfed the Ocean Melody, a cargo ship moored at a Chinese port while undergoing maintenance operations. The blaze claimed the lives of at least 20 people, according to state media reports on Sunday.
Emergency responders successfully evacuated 17 individuals from the vessel, though five of them sustained injuries during the operation. The swift evacuation effort prevented further casualties, though five crew members remain unaccounted for as rescue operations continue.
The Ocean Melody was stationary at the time of the incident and had been in maintenance when the fire broke out. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze. The incident marks one of the deadliest maritime fires in recent years in the region and has renewed concerns about safety protocols aboard vessels undergoing repair and maintenance operations.