A Hong Kong court sentenced captain Lin Shou-wen to 14 months in prison for endangering maritime safety after a fatal collision with a fishing boat. Lin admitted to taking a shortcut and failing to assign a lookout, leading to one death and six rescues. The judge criticized his delayed response.
On December 11, Singapore authorities arrested Nigel Tang Wan Bao Nabil, linked to a large Asian scam network tied to alleged mastermind Chen Zhi. Currently out on bail, Tang faces accusations of money laundering. Investigations intensified after U.S. sanctions, revealing a vast operation involving substantial financial fraud and global victimization.
The captain of the Ro-Pax ferry Queen Jenuvia II faces criticism for his absence from the bridge during over 1,000 crossings in narrow waters. The grounding on November 19, 2024, raises safety concerns about operational protocols, highlighting the need for strict adherence to navigation responsibilities to ensure passenger safety.
The Korea Coast Guard is pursuing an arrest warrant for the Queen Jenuvia II’s captain after the ferry ran aground near Shinan County, injuring 30 of the 267 individuals on board. Accused of gross negligence, he allegedly left the wheelhouse unattended in a perilous channel, violating maritime regulations. Investigations continue.
Capt. Zulaika Florin, a master mariner with Hafnia, was honored as Seafarer of the Year at the 2025 Crew Connect Global Awards. Recognized for her exceptional leadership in navigating challenges, she stands out among five global nominees, highlighting the importance of resilience and commitment in the maritime community.
On November 9, three Vietnamese seafarers were arrested by the Busan Coast Guard for attempting to forcibly enter the captain’s cabin of a Panamanian-flagged cargo ship at Gamcheon Port. The violent confrontation, involving an axe, raised serious concerns about safety and underlying crew issues, prompting investigations into their motivations.
A foreign national faced a dire situation when she tried to reboard a drifting boat with its engines off. Phuket Marine Police quickly intervened, rescuing her from the dangers posed by spinning propellers. This incident underscores the critical need for vigilance and safety awareness among tourists near watercraft.
Captain Oreh Danylin of the MSC Jubilee IX is facing a $10,000 arrest warrant issued by King County after missing a court hearing. This follows his detention for operating while intoxicated, where he recorded a blood alcohol concentration of 0.24%. Following his absence, Danylin’s legal troubles have intensified.
Marina Starovoitova has made history as the first woman to command a nuclear icebreaker, the Yamal. Announced on August 20, 2025, during the Dreamer concert in Nizhny Novgorod, her leadership marks a significant milestone in Russia’s nuclear industry, emphasizing security and efficient navigation in Arctic waters.
The trial of Captain Davit Vadatchkoria and two senior officers of the tanker Adler S began on August 25 in Helsinki. Facing serious charges of sabotage and telecommunications interference, the prosecution is seeking prison sentences of two to ten years, alleging intentional misconduct leading to significant maritime damage.
On August 20, the US Coast Guard Investigative Service arrested the captain of the MSC Jubilee IX, a large container ship, suspected of operating under the influence. A pilot reported signs of impairment, leading to a sobriety test that revealed a blood alcohol level over six times the legal limit.
A fire erupted Saturday in Yeosu, South Korea, involving an oil tanker and a cargo ship, resulting in one death and two injuries. While both vessels were moored, witnesses alerted the Coast Guard. Rescue operations saved 18 crew members, but the cargo ship’s captain was found unconscious and later died.
On August 13, 2025, a cargo ship collided with a yacht near Kyushu Island, Japan, leading to the arrest of Captain Yuki Mochizuki. A search revealed the body of Dr. Makoto Yamamoto, who suffered cardiac arrest. The incident highlights urgent maritime safety needs amid challenging navigation conditions.
Japanese authorities have arrested the 28-year-old captain of Sada Maru No 38 after his gravel carrier collided with a yacht near Hoto Island, Oita. The incident resulted in one fatality amid poor visibility. Officials continue searching for missing persons as investigators probe possible negligence by the detained captain and crew.
Finland’s National Public Prosecutor has charged the captain and two officers of the EagleS oil tanker for damaging underwater cables in the Gulf of Finland. The crew, predominantly Georgian and Indian nationals, is accused of causing a severe criminal disaster by dragging the ship’s anchor, severing vital communication lines.
