On July 07, 17:30 UTC, the Liberia flagged bulk carrier “ETERNITY C” transiting northbound the Southern Red Sea came under a sustained and coordinated attack.
The assault involved at least 2 Loitering Munition (UAVs), 4 RPGs and intense firing. A distress has been sent by the vessel, suffered severe damage, listed 15° to starboard. Reports indicated fatalities and injuries.
Abandon ship order was given on July 08, 06:00 UTC, but evacuation has been hindered due to the lifeboats being destroyed. Finally, the vessel sunk today July 09 morning time.
On 08 July at 0800 UTC, crew members are reported in the water. The nearby commercial vessel BARYON visually sighted Eternity C, at position 14°28.1’N, 042°09.5’E and was proceeding to assist. However, the mission was paused after a skiff was observed approaching the distressed vessel.
A SAR operation, undertaken by Diaplous and Ambrey, is currently in progress.
Current reports indicate:
Confirmed casualties: 3 dead (including the Chief Engineer, an oiler, and an engine cadet)
Injuries: At least 2 injured, including a Russian electrician who lost a leg (missing)
At this moment, there are 6 people collected (5 crew members and 1 MSO – Maritime Security Officer).
Out of the 22 crew & 3 MSO (total 25) we have 3 deceased, 6 rescued. 16 unaccounted for.
Vessels in the area are notified to maintain sharp lookout and report any sightings immediately.
