Two dead after tug capsizes in Inverclyde, Scotland

Biter (Photo: Clyde Marine Services)

Two people are confirmed dead after a harbour tug capsized and sank off the town of Greenock in Scotland’s Inverclyde council area on Friday, February 24.

Biter, a tug operated by local company Clyde Marine Services, was assisting an inbound ferry in Greenock’s East India Harbour when it suddenly overturned at around 15:30 local time on Friday.

HM Coastguard, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), and Police Scotland deployed boats with embarked dive and rescue teams to the area to render assistance to the tug and the two crewmen. However, the search and rescue (SAR) effort needed to be postponed on Friday evening due to deteriorating visibility.

The SAR operation was resumed at first light on Saturday, February 25. It was concluded at 13:40 following the discovery of the bodies of the two deceased crewmen.

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has since sent inspectors to the area to collect evidence necessary for an upcoming preliminary assessment of the mishap.


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