UK Authorities Confirm Arrest Of Russian Bulk Carrier Over Owners Debt

LONDON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 17th January, 2019) The UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) confirmed on Thursday the detention of Russian bulk carrier Kuzma Minin in need of repairs due to a debt by ship owners.

The ship with 18 Russian sailors aboard ran aground near Falmouth in mid-December. The vessel was soon refloated and examined by divers, who found the ship was slightly damaged.

"The Kuzma Minin remains detained by the MCA pending necessary repairs and until other detainable deficiencies have been rectified by the owners," an MCA spokesperson told Sputnik.

According to the official, the vessel has been visited by MCA surveyors on a number of occasions since its grounding on the 18th December 2018.

"The vessel continues to have electrical and engine power, and all crew onboard are safe and well. Local seafarer charities, with the support of the Harbour Master, have been able to provide fresh food provisions to assist the crew," the spokesperson stressed.