Operator of oil tanker 'Vilamoura' reveals cause of mysterious explosion off Libyan coast
The Vilamoura left the Libyan port of Zueitina on June 27, en route to the Strait of Gibraltar carrying 1 million barrels of crude oil, when it was hit by a mysterious explosion on board that caused large volumes of water to flood the engine room.
Greek newspaper Kathimerini reported on Monday that TMS Tankers said preliminary investigation results clearly indicated the explosion—and the resulting cracks in the side shell plating and flooding of the engine room—were caused by an external source: an unidentified explosive device.
The company noted that the tanker lost its ability to maneuver after the explosion and the flooding of the engine room, but was towed to Greece for damage assessment. The Vilamoura has since safely arrived at Greece's Laconikos Gulf.
Maritime security sources told Reuters last week that a limpet mine may have been the cause of the explosion aboard the Vilamoura. Tags: Oil Tanker
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