The Navi Mumbai police have dismantled an employment scam, arresting two individuals for defrauding 17 job seekers of ₹41.75 lakh. The accused promised high-paying positions on foreign ships but failed to deliver. A case has been filed against 12 suspects, as the investigation continues into the fraudulent operation.
Maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz is recovering, with Kpler reporting 38 vessel crossings on July 2—a 10% drop from the previous day. While daily crossings stabilize between 30 and 60, they remain far below prewar averages. Increased Iranian-flagged vessels suggest shifts in operational routes amid ongoing uncertainties.
The Chair of the Djibouti Code of Conduct has urgently sought international assistance for the crew of the hijacked tanker MT HONOUR 25. Held captive for over two months, their health is deteriorating, with inadequate food and unsafe water. Immediate action is needed to secure their release and provide essential support.
The Directorate General of Maritime Affairs (DGMA) has launched an investigation into the case of Rakesh Chauhan, an Indian seafarer whose remains were returned with missing organs. Following a request from the Indian Embassy in Venezuela, the DGMA is verifying facts and has appointed surveyors for an independent inquiry.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) plans to invest $1.4 billion in India’s port infrastructure, the largest foreign private investment in the sector. However, the Kerala government expressed strong displeasure over being excluded from consultations. Adani Ports will sell a 49% stake in Vizhinjam port while retaining a 51% stake.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITWF) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) have extended the designation of the Strait of Hormuz as a “Warlike Operations Area” until July 9. This decision follows recent attacks on cargo ships, highlighting ongoing risks for seafarers, who will continue to receive double pay in the region.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries in Indonesia plans to modernize 4,582 fishing vessels to enhance sector competitiveness. This initiative aims to create around 58,000 jobs and boost annual fish catch to 2.3 million tons. Additional programs focus on food security and economic growth, supporting national welfare.
Greece has arrested the captain of a Bahamas-registered cruise ship after a passenger fell into the water at Corfu’s port on July 1. Strong winds caused securing lines to snap, leading to the incident. The captain faces charges for endangering a passenger’s life and neglecting his duties during the event.
India and the EU have made significant progress in ship recycling collaboration, with three Indian facilities now compliant with EU regulations. Following discussions between Indian Minister Sonowal and EU Commissioner Roswall, over 30 Indian yards have applied for recognition. India aims to recycle 16,000 ships in the next decade, enhancing sustainability.
During a high-level roundtable in Mumbai, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) reaffirmed India’s commitment to seafarer welfare. Key discussions, involving industry leaders and maritime unions, focused on enhancing policies for accountability and inclusivity, addressing challenges like safety and shore leave, and emphasizing continuous skill development in a digitalized maritime landscape.
The International Chamber of Shipping has released the sixth edition of Shipping and the Environment: A Guide to Environmental Compliance. This guide simplifies complex regulations for shipping companies, seafarers, and policymakers, enhancing awareness of environmental compliance and future developments in the industry, including key topics like invasive species and sewage regulations.
Interlink Shipping Services’ Managing Director, Ashish Kumar, urgently urged the Fijian government and MSAF to address a severe reduction in shipping services between Viti Levu and Vanua Levu due to a shortage of skilled seafarers. This situation compromises safety and disrupts vital passenger and freight transport. Immediate action is essential.
Germany’s top prosecutor has indicted a Ukrainian national, Serhii K, over the 2022 Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions. Accused of attacking civilian energy infrastructure, he allegedly led a team that planted explosives. The case, crucial for European energy security, is now closer to trial following his arrest in Italy.
Panama has been reinstated on the White List of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding, as noted in the recent Annual Report. The Panama Maritime Authority expressed satisfaction with this recognition, highlighting Panama’s commitment to maritime safety and regulatory oversight, reflecting significant improvements in the quality of its ship registry.
The CMA CGM Group recently celebrated the naming of the CMA CGM NOTRE DAME in Le Havre, introducing the largest French-flagged containership. At 400 meters long and with a capacity of 24,000 TEUs, it is the largest LNG-powered vessel, showcasing advanced technology to reduce harmful emissions in maritime transport.
