.png)
The Singapore-flagged dry bulk carrier Devon Bay has sunk in the South China Sea after issuing a distress call late on 22 January, with rescue operations by Chinese and Philippine authorities resulting in multiple survivors and reported fatalities.
The 56,000-dwt vessel initially reported a heavy list before capsizing. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the ship was listing around 25 degrees when the alert was received, while Chinese authorities later stated that the vessel had overturned. Images released by Chinese media showed crew members abandoning ship in liferafts.
Built in 2013, the Devon Bay was carrying 21 Filipino seafarers and was sailing from Zamboanga, Philippines, to Yangjiang, China, with a cargo of nickel ore. The vessel is owned by a Singapore-based subsidiary of Japan’s “K” Line (Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha).
Chinese officials reported the sinking occurred northwest of Scarborough Shoal, while the PCG said the incident took place within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone, highlighting the sensitivity of the location amid ongoing territorial disputes in the area.
China’s Coast Guard said it recovered 17 crew members, including two confirmed fatalities. The search continues for the last four missing seafarers.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) confirmed it will lead the investigation into the incident as the vessel’s flag state, stating it remains in contact with the shipowner and relevant authorities.
The cause of the sinking has not yet been disclosed.
.png)
.png)
.png)
