KARACHI, May 23: Pakistan Navy personnel rescued 12 crew members of a Korean vessel which caught fire in the sea. A Korean merchant ship “MV Horizon-9” caught fire about 15 miles South-West of Karachi in the Arabian sea.

An ISPR press release here on Monday said the propulsion system and electric power of the ship completely broke down and the vessel became “Not under command” in the open sea with its crew members trapped and waiting for assistance.

Upon receiving request from the Maritime Security Agency, Pakistan Navy immediately responded and launched a rescue operation.

Initially, an Allouette helicopter was tasked for damage assessment and to rescue critically injured crewmen.

Later, Pakistan Navy’s fast patrol craft PNS Larkana and two ocean going tugs Rustam and Delair were sent. After successful operation, lives of 12 crew members were saved and damaged ship was towed back to Karachi anchorage area.

The ship was handed over to the local representatives of her owner who lauded the prompt efforts of Pakistan Navy.— APP