Panama-Flag Container Ship Sinks Off Phuket Coast

A Panama-flagged container ship traveling from Port Klang to Chattogram sank off the coast of Phuket over the weekend after it suddenly developed a heavy list.

The master of the Sealloyd Arc sent out an abandon-ship alert at around 15:00 local time on Saturday. Thai authorities, along with nearby vessels, evacuated all 16 Bangladeshi crew members by 15:50. Officials later confirmed that everyone was safe and receiving support while staying in Phuket.

According to local media reports, the Sealloyd Arc was carrying roughly 200 containers and went down on Sunday. Aerial inspections later indicated the presence of a small oil spill in the area.

The Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre has established a situation command center to coordinate salvage operations and monitor any drifting containers. Investigations into the incident are still underway.