SAMSA Investigates Medicine Bottles Washing Ashore Amid Container Losses

The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is currently investigating the origin of medicine bottles that have been washing up on the country’s east coast. These bottles, containing pills, have been found in areas such as Port Alfred, Kenton, Cannon Rocks, and Boknes since September 9, 2024. The incident is occurring amidst an increase in container losses from cargo ships traveling the Indian Ocean around the Cape of Good Hope. SAMSA is collaborating with an Incident Management Systems (IMS) committee to analyze and safely dispose of the products while monitoring the coast for any additional containers or goods that may wash ashore.

Several cargo ships, including MV Benjamin Franklin, MV CMA CGM Belem, MV Maersk Stepnica, MV Rio Grande Express, and MSC Antonia, have lost nearly 200 containers due to winter storms over the past eight weeks. These incidents underscore the risks associated with extreme weather conditions and the challenges of responding to maritime emergencies on the coast. SAMSA reassures that ship owners are cooperating fully and are prepared to conduct clean-up operations if required.

The surge in shipping traffic near the Cape of Good Hope, following Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, may have contributed to the increased incidents. SAMSA emphasizes the importance of coastal residents reporting any unusual findings to local authorities and avoiding contact with unidentified substances. It is crucial for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in response to these maritime incidents.

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