Turkish Cargo Vessel Feared Sunk in Marmara Sea Collision

A Turkish general cargo vessel, the 3,970 dwt *Tugberk Imamoglu*, is feared to have sunk in the Sea of Marmara after colliding with the 3,338 dwt chemical tanker *Alsu* early on Wednesday. Ten crewmembers from the *Tugberk Imamoglu* are currently missing, according to a report by Splash247.

The collision occurred approximately 18 nautical miles south of Silivri, west of Istanbul, shortly after 03:00 local time. Turkish maritime authorities received an emergency signal from the *Tugberk Imamoglu*'s EPIRB at 03:26. The master of the *Alsu* subsequently contacted vessel traffic services at 03:41 to report the collision, which he stated occurred around 03:15.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Repeated attempts via radio and telephone to contact the *Tugberk Imamoglu* and its 10 crewmembers have been unsuccessful. Authorities have concluded that the vessel has likely sunk. The ongoing search and rescue operation involves fourteen maritime search and rescue units, a helicopter, and the *Alsu*.

Survival equipment from the missing vessel, including its free-fall lifeboat, has been located on the water. However, as of the time of Splash247's report, no crewmembers had been found.

Vessels and Voyages

The *Tugberk Imamoglu*, built in 1990 and owned by Istanbul-based Zeybe Denizcilik, was en route from Iskenderun to Karadeniz Eregli. The *Alsu*, a 2021-built chemical tanker owned by Ozpulathane Deniz Tasimaciligi, was travelling from Kocaeli to Aliaga.

Initial inspections of the *Alsu* found no visible damage to the tanker, Splash247 reported.