What Crew Members Say About Clipper

On September 17, 2025, the LPG carrier 'Clipper', carrying a crew of 27 with 24 Pakistanis including Captain Mukhtar Akbar, was struck in an Israeli attack targeting Houthi-controlled ports in Yemen while docked at Ras Isa. The assault caused extensive damage, partially sinking another vessel and jeopardizing additional ships, while decimating much of the port's infrastructure. During the strike, one of 'Clipper's' LPG tanks detonated, igniting a blaze that raged for four challenging days before firefighters finally managed to extinguish it. However, reports from crew member Murad Ali, a trainee wiper and mechanic, indicated that the gas leakage persisted despite the fire being out. In the aftermath, Houthi boat crews intervened, boarding the damaged ship, with conflicting reports detailing the fate of the crew. Some accounts suggested they were taken hostage, while others indicated they had abandoned the vessel but were compelled to return aboard under duress from Houthi militants as the flames still flickered amid the wreckage. The vessel lacked adequate firefighting equipment, complicating the emergency response. Thanks to the swift intervention of the Pakistani ambassador to Oman, with backing from Saudi Arabian authorities and Pakistani security agencies, the crew was ultimately freed, having escaped Houthi territory. The 'Clipper', previously known as 'Eagle Pride', has been reported as attempting to fraudulently fly the Guyanese flag, rendering it effectively stateless. Originally sold in 2023 to an undisclosed buyer, its current operators remain a mystery. Notably, the tanker is under the scrutiny of U.S. counterterrorism sanctions. The 'Clipper' had departed Djibouti on September 4 and arrived in Ras Isa two days later. After the incident, the tanker was granted clearance to depart Ghubb Dignaw, setting sail for Djibouti on September 29. For visuals and further details, check this video report: [Footage from the Incident](https://x.com/i/status/1971600598144635262) and additional coverage on [Dialogue Pakistan](https://dialoguepakistan.com/en/pakistan/24-pakistani-sailors-safe-after-lpg-vessel-caught-fire-off-yemen-coast--fo).

In a recent maritime transaction, Global United Shipping has successfully purchased a vessel for the impressive sum of $34 million. Following the acquisition, the vessel has been rebranded and will now operate under the name 'Fuji Gas'. This acquisition marks a significant step for Global United Shipping as they continue to expand their fleet and enhance their operational capabilities.

EXMAR LPG has officially announced the divestiture of its Very Large Gas Carrier, FLANDERS TENACITY, which boasts a capacity of 84,270 m3 and was built in 1996, alongside the Midsize Gas Carrier, EEKLO, with a capacity of 37,450 m3, launched in 1995. According to a recent press announcement, both vessels are set to transfer ownership during June. The deal is anticipated to yield a substantial capital gain of approximately USD 18.0 million from EXMAR's 50% ownership stake in EXMAR LPG. This strategic transaction is projected to provide EXMAR LPG with net cash proceeds totaling around USD 44.0 million.