According to a report by TradeWinds, an HMM boxship is currently facing continuing efforts to extinguish a fire that broke on in the early hours of 7 October. 

The vessel is identified the 5,023-TEU HMM Platinum, which reported fire on board while sailing in the Indian Ocean off the southern coast of Madagascar.

According to the report, the fire originated in a container while the vessel was at sea.

TradeWinds report that HMM confirmed all crew members to be safe. The company also stated that the vessel’s propulsion and navigation systems are operating normally.

While the extent of damage to the vessel and cargo remains unknown, damage is believed to be substantial. The vessel was carrying approximately 2,300 containers at the time of the incident.

The vessel was initially expected to divert to Durban, South Africa, and was reported as heading there as a port of refuge.

However, later advisories indicated that alternative arrangements were being explored, with Gqeberha, formerly Port Elizabeth, identified as a possible refuge option.

HMM said investigations into the cause of the fire, the extent of the damage and decisions regarding the vessel’s destination will proceed once the blaze has been fully extinguished.