Discover the Cma-Cgm-Panama: Ratings & Maritime News

In a striking incident at the Suez Canal, four stowaways from Sri Lanka were apprehended while traveling clandestinely on the 'CMA CGM Panama'. The youths had managed to board the vessel while it was docked at Colombo Harbour on March 24, 2023. Their journey took an unexpected turn when the ship's captain discovered their presence during a routine security check at the Suez Canal in Egypt. Upon making this alarming discovery, the captain promptly notified the ship's parent company. Following company protocols, the stowaways were transferred on March 28 to the m/v 'Jackson Bay' (IMO: 9322358), belonging to the same shipping line and en route to Sri Lanka. The stowaways were kept in a special containment area under strict supervision until reaching international waters off Galle port. Once in international waters, local authorities were alerted, resulting in a joint operation by the Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Police, and Sri Lanka Port Authority. This coordinated effort culminated in the handover of the four individuals on April 10, where they were transferred to the Galle Port Police. The youths, aged 25, 31, 32, and 32, hail from the districts of Jaffna and Mullaitivu. Following their apprehension, the Immigration Department immediately passed the stowaways to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on April 11. Authorities have indicated that legal action will not only target these individuals but also those who may have facilitated their journey. This incident highlights ongoing challenges regarding stowaways in maritime shipping and the measures taken by authorities to address such situations.