CHUKAI: The "ghost ship" found drifting near an oil platform in Terengganu appears to be risk-free, with no hazardous chemicals or human remains found in the abandoned vessel, says Kemaman Maritime Zone director Maritime Commander Abdul Halim Hamzah.
He said 17 personnel from the Fire and Rescue Department's hazardous materials (hazmat) team and three officers from the Terengganu Marine Department were involved in an hour-long inspection on three levels of the 53.7x10m (length/width) ship at the Kemaman Supply Base on Friday (Aug 15).
He said the department used two types of high-tech equipment, a four-gas meter and gasmet (gas analyser) to detect the presence of any hazardous materials or gases.
"The area was found to be safe, with no sign or presence of human remains. Initially, there was an unpleasant odour but upon inspection it was traced to ingredients in the refrigerator," he told a press conference at the Kemaman Maritime Zone here on Friday.
In addition, the MMEA team will conduct regular patrols around the ship's area to prevent trespassing.
"The 293-tonne ship will be handed over to the Marine Department for further action," he said.
Earlier, the ghost ship was towed some 140 nautical miles to the Kemaman Supply Base at about 11.30am before the safety inspection was conducted at 3.30pm.
According to MMEA, the ghost ship was first spotted on Aug 12.
Pahang MMEA said the ghost ship is believed to be an oil tanker which caught fire off Tanjung Sedili Kecil, off the Johor coast on Aug 7, where one crew member died, with four others injured. – Bernama
