Priority Broadcast Alert – Indian Ocean Region

The Liberia-flagged container vessel MSC ELSA 3 sank 15NM southwest of Alappuzha, Kerala, India. The vessel reported a 26-degree list to its starboard side and subsequently sent out a distress call to the authorities at 08:00 UTC on the 24th of May. The vessel reportedly capsized and sank at position 09°18.75’N, 076°08.16’E on the morning of the 25th of May. All 24 crew members of the vessel were rescued by the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard. The cause of the incident has not yet been identified by authorities. At the time of writing, one aircraft is currently involved in the operation in an effort to contain the oil slick. In addition, at least 25 containers were adrift and floating towards the coast of Kerala. Some of the containers reportedly contain hazardous material.
ADVICE: Vessels are advised to avoid the last known position of the MSC ELSA 3 and maintain a lookout for any potential navigational hazards, including drifting containers.