17 JUN 2019
The K-Line car carrier Diamond Highway has been abandoned in the South China Sea after a fire broke out on board the vessel late Sunday (16TH June) night, according to reports.
A Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson confirmed to media that the Panamanian-flagged Diamond Highway caught fire as it was underway near Recto Bank (Reed Bank).
The fire was first reported at around 11:30 p.m. local time on Sunday, according to the spokesperson.
The fire forced all 25 crew members to abandon ship. They were later picked up by the bulk carrier Canupos Leader and are now en route to Thailand.
The 199-meter Diamond Highway is sailing from Singapore to Batangas, Philippines, according to AIS data.
The PCG has sent the BRP Cabra to help extinguish the fire.