Nuku‘alofa — Several crew members aboard the MV Otuanga’ofa are alleged to have been overcome by fumes while cleaning a tank, in an incident that has raised concerns about safety procedures on board.
The vessel is currently in Fiji following an earlier reported problem with one of its engines, when the alleged incident occurred.
According to information received, about five crew members are said to have entered one of the ship’s tanks to carry out cleaning work.
It is alleged that all of them lost consciousness while inside, possibly after being exposed to hazardous fumes.
Efforts were reportedly made to remove the crew from the confined space, with first aid administered at the scene. Those efforts are believed to have helped revive the affected men.
Unconfirmed information suggests the tank may not have been properly “gas-freed” — a critical safety process used to remove toxic or oxygen-deficient air — before the crew entered.
The incident, if confirmed, highlights the serious risks associated with confined space work at sea, particularly when safety protocols are not fully observed.
Kaniva News has contacted relevant authorities for comment. Officials said a statement would be issued once details surrounding what happened are confirmed.
