Polish vessel involved in North Sea collision; British ship sinks

Two freighters, Poland's MS Polesie and the British "Verity", collided off the German island of Heligoland early on Tuesday, according to a statement from the German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies.

MS Polesie.

Photo: PŻM Polsteam

The collision, taking place approximately twelve nautical miles southwest of Heligoland around 5 am, led to the believed sinking of the "Verity".

Rapid response rescue operations were immediately launched, deploying specialized maritime rescue units, regional police boats, aircraft, and helicopters to the scene.

So far, one individual has been safely recovered from the turbulent waters, but the search continues for several others who remain unaccounted for, with weather conditions complicating the efforts due to strong winds and high tides.

The Polish vessel, MS Polesie, which had 22 crew members on board at the time of the incident, is reported to be in a stable condition and is not at risk of sinking. Preliminary reports suggest no injuries among the Polesie's crew.Początek formularza

(jh)

Source: IAR, PAP