An intensive search and rescue operation was launched after a crew member missing from the tanker Songa Pearl in the Elbe estuary was reported overboard on January 25. Despite a massive mobilization of maritime assets, the 29-year-old sailor remains unaccounted for, leading authorities to suspend the active search pending new leads.
The Songa Pearl, a chemical and oil products tanker, was transiting through German waters while en route from Antwerp, Belgium, to Gdańsk, Poland. The alarm was raised at approximately 06:00 local time when the crew realized the seafarer was missing. Investigations revealed he had last been seen several hours prior, creating a significant window of uncertainty regarding his exact location when he entered the water.
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Bremen spearheaded a response, deploying a diverse fleet of specialized assets. The operation involved multiple search and rescue vessels, supported by local pilot boats, water police and a tugboat. Aerial surveillance was also utilized, with a helicopter from the German Navy Air Service scanning the estuary from above.
The search initially spanned a vast area between the Weser and Elbe estuaries. At approximately 07:00 rescuers recovered a lifebuoy with a flashing light in the Lower Elbe, which was subsequently confirmed to be from the Songa Pearl. No further signs of the crew member were detected.
Facing frigid winter water temperatures and after exhausting all primary search sectors, the DGzRS officially called off the operation at 12:52 pm.
The vessel remained in the area during the search but has since been cleared to continue its voyage.
