Cargo ship and fuel tanker collision off English coast sparks calls for international probe

A global seafarers' union has called for a transparent and internationally coordinated investigation into a collision between a fuel tanker and a container ship off the English coast that left one person presumed dead.

The accident occurred on Monday when the Solong, a Portuguese-flagged cargo vessel, crashed into the anchored Stena Immaculate, a tanker carrying U.S. military jet fuel. The impact caused large fires and explosions, with dramatic footage showing flames engulfing both vessels.

Authorities confirmed that 36 crew members were safely brought to shore, but one individual remains missing and is presumed dead.

The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), the world's largest seafarers' union, urged all relevant jurisdictions to work together in determining the cause of the incident.

"There are crucial questions that remain unanswered in the wake of this tragedy, and these must be addressed through a full and transparent internationally coordinated investigation," ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton said in a statement on Wednesday.

Investigators are expected to analyze factors such as vessel navigation, communications between the two ships, and potential mechanical failures. Maritime authorities from Portugal, the UK, and the U.S. are likely to be involved in the probe.

The accident raises fresh concerns over maritime safety, particularly regarding the handling of hazardous cargo. Industry experts stress the need for stringent oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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