Tanker Missing Off West Africa

U.K. tanker-owner Union Maritime has reported that its tanker MT Barrett, which was at anchor off Benin, West Africa, has not been heard from since late on January 9.

Local maritime authorities have been alerted.

“Whilst we are tirelessly working to locate the vessel, our primary concern is for the 22 crew on board and ensuring their safety,” said the company in a statement. “Union Maritime regularly operates from ports in this region and has a rigorous safety and security protocol. Crews are repeatedly drilled in all safety and emergency procedures.”

The MT Barrett is a 11999dwt tanker built in 2005 and registered in the Marshall Islands.