Search continues for missing crew of Ukrainian ship

Hopes of rescuing 18 Ukrainian seafarers believed to be trapped inside the sunken pipe carrier Neftegaz-67 have faded as attempts to enter the ship have been unsuccessful. Director of Marine, Roger Tupper said that divers have so far seen no signs of life. He stressed that operations will continue until rescuers have retrieved the wreck and searched the vessel for missing crew. Rescue work has been hindered by poor visibility due to silt and the rapid current. Neftegaz-67 (1,300 dwt), which sank after colliding with a Chinese bulk carrier Yao Hai (69,000 dwt) off Lantau island on Saturday night, is lying upside down on the seabed at a depth of 35 m. Salvors have managed to stabilise the tug after it was decided not to move the wreck to shallow water because most of the vessel has settled into the seabed. Seven seafarers including the captain were rescued by Hong Kong marine police. All crew members of Yao Hai, whose bow has been damaged, are safe and are assisting in investigations.