One missing after cargo ship sinks in rough seas off Iranian coast

Iranian media reports that one person has gone missing after a foreign-owned cargo vessel sank in the Persian Gulf off the southern province of Bushehr on Thursday, March 17.

The vessel was some 50 kilometres off the Port of Asalouyeh when it encountered heavy seas and strong winds with speeds of as much as 37 knots.

An Iranian official said three rescue boats were despatched to render assistance. However, the deteriorating weather and sea conditions caused the larger ship to sink before any of the responding boats could manoeuvre alongside to evacuate those on board.

A local news outlet said all but one of the ship’s 30-strong crew have been safely evacuated.

Rescue teams are meanwhile continuing to search the surrounding waters for any sign of the missing sailor.

A representative of Dubai-based Salem Al Makrani Cargo Company, the owners of the vessel, told Reuters that the firm was in contact with port authorities in Asalouyeh.