Discover the Leo: Ratings & Maritime News

**Title: Search and Rescue Operation for AHTS 'Leo' Ceases Amid Ongoing Challenges** In a recent development, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has announced the suspension of the search and rescue (SAR) operation following the tragic sinking of the anchor handling tug supply vessel 'Leo,' which occurred on March 2 at sunset, approximately 80 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay. All 12 crew members who survived the sinking are now safe after being successfully disembarked in Port Elizabeth, where they received necessary medical care and emotional support. Among them, nine crew members were rescued by the container vessel 'Maersk Karachi' (IMO: 9162215), while three others were pulled from the ocean by the roro vessel 'Grand Hero' (IMO: 9339806). These rescues took place under hazardous conditions, characterized by strong winds, high swells, and limited visibility. As for the deceased crew member, efforts for formal identification are currently underway, coordinated with the appropriate authorities. The body was recovered by the fishing vessel 'Boronia' and subsequently transported to Port Elizabeth. Unfortunately, five crew members remain unaccounted for despite extensive search efforts that included both surface and aerial searches since the initial distress signal was dispatched. Throughout the operation, numerous vessels and air support units were mobilized under the coordination of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Cape Town to assist with the SAR mission. Additionally, a navigation warning has been issued for mariners operating in the vicinity, alerting them to potential debris and the last-known position of the sunken vessel, as well as the presence of unretrieved life-rafts. Mariners are urged to report any sightings of debris, pollution, or individuals in distress to MRCC Cape Town or Cape Town Radio, as the search for the missing crew continues in the region.

**Tragic Incident Off South Africa: One Fatality and Five Missing After Tugboat Sinks** In a heartbreaking maritime disaster, one individual has lost their life, and five others are unaccounted for following the sinking of the tugboat 'Leo' off South Africa's coast. The incident transpired early on March 1, 2026, approximately 80 nautical miles from the Western Cape region. The 'Leo' encountered severe weather conditions approximately 18 nautical miles offshore while returning to Lagos from Durban, where it had set sail on February 25. The vessel issued a distress signal on February 28 at 5:02 p.m., prompting immediate response efforts coordinated by the South African Search and Rescue (SASAR). A mayday relay was swiftly broadcasted via Cape Town Radio, urging nearby ships to assist. As the situation worsened, the crew of 18 abandoned ship into four life rafts before the tug finally succumbed to the turbulent waters. Search operations have involved two merchant vessels, the 'Maersk Karachi' (IMO: 9162215) and 'Grand Hero' (IMO: 9339806), alongside a local fishing boat named 'Boronia.' A helicopter has also been deployed to aid in the aerial search for the missing crew members. Rescue operations have so far succeeded in saving 12 of the crew members, who were subsequently taken to Port Elizabeth. Officials from the Nigeria High Commission are en route to meet the survivors. Tragically, one person has been confirmed dead, while searches continue to locate the five missing crew members approximately 80 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay. The maritime community remains hopeful for a swift resolution to this tragic event.

**Title: Extensive Search and Rescue Operation Underway for Missing Seafarers off South Africa's Coast** A significant search and rescue (SAR) operation, spearheaded by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) in collaboration with the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Cape Town, is currently in progress along the southern coastline of South Africa. This rescue mission follows the unfortunate sinking of the tugboat 'Leo,' which went down approximately 80 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay after sustaining severe flooding late on February 28. The 'Leo,' which had recently departed from Durban after being docked at Bluff for several months, issued a mayday distress call at 7:02 p.m. local time, reporting uncontrolled water ingress and urgently requesting assistance. The vessel's crew of 18 swiftly abandoned ship into four liferafts as the tug sank in the early hours of March 1. In response to the distress call, two commercial vessels along with a local fishing boat altered their courses to provide assistance, while aerial support was deployed for extensive search efforts, despite challenging weather conditions. Fortunately, 12 of the crew members were rescued and have since been taken ashore for medical evaluation and consular support. Nigerian diplomatic representatives are reportedly providing aid to the affected crew members and their families. An Incident Management System was activated to facilitate the multi-agency coordination crucial for an effective rescue operation. Volunteer teams from the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) joined forces with MRCC resources, aircraft, and passing commercial ships to bolster the search efforts. The tugboat, previously known as 'GMTS Tracker 01,' has a history linked to a widely publicized crew abandonment case in Durban in 2023, where outstanding wages were settled, and crew members were eventually repatriated in 2024. It was operated by a Nigerian company and was on its way back to West Africa after undergoing repairs or preparations in South Africa. However, details regarding the ownership and operational control of the vessel have yet to be officially confirmed by authorities. Initial distress messages indicated that the flooding may have resulted from structural issues, machinery-space failures, or stability loss. Investigators are expected to assess the vessel's seaworthiness, maintenance history, and operational status following its extended period of inactivity. Once search operations conclude, a formal marine casualty investigation will commence, focusing on several key issues, including: - The source of flooding on the vessel - The overall condition of the tug after its lay-up period - Compliance with safety regulations and certification - Exposure to adverse weather conditions during its voyage As this SAR operation continues, the maritime community remains hopeful for the safe recovery of the missing seafarers.