MV Ocean Winner sinking: Two survivors rescued as search continues for 22 missing

Two Chinese sailors, Pan Tonglai and Chen Jianhe, have been brought to Paradip, India, after being rescued from a life raft following the sinking of the Panama-flagged bulk carrier MV Ocean Winner. The vessel, which was carrying approximately 71,000 tonnes of iron ore, sank in the Bay of Bengal on August 22.

Of the 24 crew members on board—including 20 Chinese, three Myanmar, and one Bangladeshi national—22 remain missing. Search and rescue operations involving the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy are ongoing. While a lifeboat was located on August 25, no additional survivors were found inside.

The survivors were unable to provide immediate details regarding the sinking due to trauma and language barriers, though interpreters are expected to assist in further questioning. Maritime experts suggest the sinking may have been caused by cargo shifting or moisture in the iron ore turning it into a slurry, causing the ship to lose stability. INTERCARGO has called for a thorough, independent investigation into the incident to ensure industry safety standards.