Maritime Administration Assures Public Safety After 3 Vessels Stranded at Aberdeen-Lumley Beach

Maritime Administration Assures Public Safety After 3 Vessels Stranded at Aberdeen-Lumley Beach

The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), in collaboration with the Joint Maritime Committee Steering Group (JMC-SG), has assured the public that safety remains guaranteed following the stranding of three fishing vessels along the Aberdeen-Lumley beach in Freetown.

In a public notice issued pursuant to the Merchant Shipping Act of 2003, the SLMA identified the vessels as FV TANDEEN 001, FV TAIBA, and FV SKY 777, which recently ran aground on the coastal stretch of the popular beach.

According to the Administration, a joint technical, environmental, safety, and security impact assessment has already been conducted to determine any risks or potential effects on public safety, tourism, and the hospitality industry in the area.

The notice further revealed that formal communication has been sent to the registered owners, principals, or agents of the vessels, instructing them to carry out prompt salvage operations no later than 23rd September 2025.

SLMA also called on all parties with vested financial interests in the vessels to come forward. It warned that if owners or their representatives fail to meet the deadline, the vessels would be declared wrecks, after which the Receiver of Wrecks will provide technical supervisory support to ensure their safe and environmentally friendly disposal in line with the Merchant Shipping Act of 2003.

While acknowledging concerns raised by beachgoers and nearby recreational facilities, SLMA assured the public that there is no immediate threat to safety. The Administration emphasized its commitment to ensuring the removal of the stranded fishing vessels without compromising public safety or the environment.