Mj-Pinar Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has expressed deep sorrow over the recent attack on the civilian seafarers aboard the 'MJ Pinar' in Odesa, which occurred on March 11. Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez released a heartfelt statement addressing the incident, which resulted in the loss of four lives. "I am profoundly saddened by the tragic events in Odesa. My sympathies extend to the families and loved ones of the seafarers who have lost their lives and to those who sustained injuries during this attack. Seafarers play a vital role in maintaining the global supply chain, and they should never be caught in the crossfire of conflicts that are beyond their influence," he stated. Dominguez affirmed the need for a united commitment to safeguarding the welfare of maritime workers, urging all involved parties to cooperate in preventing future acts of violence against innocent seafarers. He emphasized that international shipping must not fall victim to the complexities of geopolitical tensions, asserting that the IMO will continue to advocate for safety and security in the maritime sector.

In a harrowing incident on the evening of March 11, 2024, the bulk carrier 'MJ Pinar', which had 12 crew members on board and was in the process of loading 30,000 tonnes of wheat for export, suffered significant damage after being hit by a Russian ballistic missile in Odessa's commercial port. The missile struck the vessel's port side stern, igniting a fire that tragically resulted in the deaths of four crew members—three from Syria and one from Ukraine. Additionally, a pilot service employee experienced injuries, alongside another Syrian crew member as a result of the strike. The air raid alarm sounded in Odessa at approximately 8:15 p.m. local time, shortly before a powerful explosion rocked the port area, caused by the missile impacting the intersection of berths 34 and 35. Reports indicate that the missile employed in this attack was Russia’s Iskander-M ballistic missile, which is reportedly armed with a cluster warhead. The strike inflicted severe damage not only to the 'MJ Pinar' but also to crucial port infrastructure, including the quay and the terminal's grain gallery. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene to assess the extent of the damage and implement necessary safety measures. This tragic event underscores the continuing peril faced by maritime operations in conflict zones. For further details and images from the scene, visit the full reports at Seanews, Pravda, and Kathmandu Post.

In the early hours of May 13, 2024, a medical emergency unfolded aboard the 'MJ Pinar', a cargo vessel traveling from Aviles to Ravenna. The crew sought urgent assistance for a fellow member who required immediate medical attention while positioned north of Burela. Responding promptly, the CCS Fisterra from Salvamento Marítimo deployed the Helimer 401 helicopter. The helicopter successfully hoisted the patient from the vessel and flew him to Alvedro Airport in A Coruña for further treatment.