Working Conditions Aboard the Sea-Lord

A dire situation is unfolding at the Port of Ngqura, where 16 crew members aboard the 'Sea Lord' have found themselves stranded for almost two months following the vessel's detention on November 14, 2025. This action stemmed from a Port State Control (PSC) inspection that uncovered 42 serious deficiencies, among which were reported non-payment of crew wages. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) has been closely monitoring the wellbeing of the affected seafarers, consisting of three crew members from Myanmar and 13 from India. As of January 13, the 'Sea Lord' remains under detention. In line with international maritime regulations, Samsa promptly alerted the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) about the wage disputes, with ongoing efforts to ensure payment from the ship's owners. Recent inspections in January have highlighted further humanitarian crises, including shortages of fresh water, food, and electricity, alongside the presence of accumulating garbage on deck. Additionally, the vessel is entangled in two ongoing court cases concerning its arrest. Samsa is actively working with the Transnet National Ports Authority, ITF, Seafarers’ Mission, and legal advisors to deliver urgent humanitarian aid to the crew. The organization remains committed to addressing these challenges in accordance with the Maritime Labour Convention and other international standards, placing the health and welfare of the crew at the forefront while overseeing the resolution process, which includes the preservation of the vessel’s original Certificate of Ship Registry.

The vessel SEA LORD (IMO: 9281413) has been flagged for abandonment in a report submitted to the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF). This significant issue highlights the ongoing challenges seafarers face globally. Key Information: - **Flag**: Comoros - **Port of Call**: Ngqura - **Location**: South Africa - **Unpaid Wages**: Three months - **Number of Affected Crew**: 16 seafarers - **Seafarer Nationalities**: Crew members hail from India and Myanmar - **Report Date**: October 1, 2025 - **Current Status**: Open This alarming situation has been documented in the ITF's Seafarers Abandonment List, a critical resource that monitors instances of crew abandonment across the globe. The plight of the SEA LORD's crew underscores the urgent need for protective measures for seafarers worldwide.