The South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa), Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE) have reported oil spillage said to have occurred around midday during a ship-to-ship transfer.

According to reports, all relevant pollution response units have been activated with booms immediately deployed to contain the oil around the vessels.

A statement released regarding the matter read, “The collecting of oil continued throughout the night last night (23^rd May). The two vessels will remain attached to help with the containment of the oil. The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (Sanccob) is in a high state of readiness to receive oiled birds,” the statement read. The public is requested to report any oiled wildlife to Sanparks.”

Samsa officials have boarded the vessels and conducted an inspection of the extent of the spill and an aerial survey has been conducted.