North Sea Collision Leaves One Ship Ablaze, Captain Arrested

An oil tanker fire has been extinguished, while a cargo ship continues to burn; investigations focus on potential negligence and environmental impact.

The Solong cargo ship collided with the Stena Immaculate oil tanker in heavy fog near the Humber Estuary on Monday, causing fires on both vessels.
The fire on the Stena Immaculate has been extinguished, but the Solong remains ablaze, emitting smoke and occasional flames.
The Solong's captain, a 59-year-old Russian national, has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter as investigations continue into the cause of the collision.
Marine and environmental experts warn of potential risks to seabirds and marine ecosystems, with Bempton Cliffs and nearby protected areas under close monitoring for pollution impacts.
Authorities, including the UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch, are examining ship systems, crew actions, and safety protocols to determine how the collision occurred and whether it could have been avoided.