A major maritime accident unfolded off the coast of England in the North Sea when an oil tanker and a cargo ship collided, triggering a massive fire and leaving 32 people injured.
The incident occurred near the port city of Hull in East Yorkshire, prompting a large-scale rescue operation by the UK Coast Guard and emergency services.
The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency responded swiftly, dispatching lifeboats and a rescue helicopter to the scene.
Grimsby port director Martin Boyers confirmed that the injured were brought ashore on three vessels, with ambulances lined up on the quay to provide immediate medical assistance.
Thick black smoke and flames could be seen rising from the vessels, with reports of fires on both ships. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and other rescue teams worked tirelessly to evacuate crew members.
Some individuals reportedly abandoned their vessels as the fire raged. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) stated that efforts were focused on firefighting and search-and-rescue operations.
UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed concern over the collision and assured that she was in touch with officials and the Coast Guard to monitor the situation. She also extended gratitude to emergency responders for their swift action.
The oil tanker involved in the accident was confirmed to be owned by Swedish company Stena Bulk and operated by US-based maritime firm Crowley.
Online tracking services identified the vessel as the Stena Immaculate, which was carrying petroleum products from Greece and was anchored near its destination, Immingham, close to Hull.
The cargo ship involved in the collision was the Solong, a Portuguese-flagged vessel owned by the German company Reederei Koepping.
Authorities are assessing potential environmental risks, including counter-pollution measures to prevent an oil spill. The cause of the collision remains under investigation as emergency teams continue their operations in the affected area.
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