What Crew Members Say About Msc-Donata

In a significant operation, Turkish authorities executed a drug raid aboard the MSC Donata, a container ship linked to an extensive international narcotics trafficking network. The bust, which involved collaborative efforts from various nations aimed at dismantling smuggling operations, took place in the Dardanelles and the ship was subsequently escorted to Ambarli, Istanbul. During the inspection, authorities uncovered a staggering 212 kilograms of pure cocaine concealed within containers that had initially been shipped from Brazil to Spain before being transferred to the MSC Donata for its voyage to Turkey. The MSC Donata had earlier docked at Gemlik on June 14, 2017, at approximately 4:20 a.m., after transiting the Dardanelles the day prior. This voyage followed a series of port calls in Spain, including Valencia, Castellon, and Barcelona, before continuing to destinations in Fos and Piraeus. Notably, there have been no reported suspicions regarding the crew members of the vessel. This operation marks a crucial step in ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking across Europe.

On April 9, 2017, a maritime incident occurred at approximately noon in Thessaloniki when the container vessel 'Iapetos' collided with the 'MSC Donata' while maneuvering into dock number 6. The 'Iapetos', which had arrived from Heraklion, was carrying a crew of 16 and a cargo of containers at the time of the allision. The impact resulted in minor damage to both vessels, but thankfully, there were no injuries reported, nor was there any marine pollution stemming from the accident. Following the collision, authorities promptly imposed sailing restrictions on both ships until thorough inspections by the classification societies were conducted. Subsequently, the 'MSC Donata' resumed its journey and departed for Izmir at 1 a.m. on April 10, while the 'Iapetos' remained at the Thessaloniki Port Authority Container Terminal for further assessment.