Almost two months after Mongolian cargo vessel Black Rose capsized in Bay of Bengal, its 26 crew members who had been under detention since then will be repatriated to their respective countries.

Reliable sources said that the clearance of director general, shipping Kolkata has not yet been obtained, but Paradip Port Trust sources informed that they have sent communiqués in this respect.

Sources said that when asked about their opinion by the immigration department, different concerned agencies and bodies had informed that the detention of these crew members is no more required since the investigation against them is complete, which prompted the department to expedite the repatriation procedures.

Of the total of 27 crew members of the iron ore laden vessel, 26 could be rescued on 9 September. One Ukrainian crew member Mr Oleksandr Liyushckenko chief engineer of the vessel was found dead after nine days of the mishap. These 26 rescued crew members including 17 Bangladeshi, six Ukrainian and three Russian nationals had since then been kept at a hotel under vigil.

They were not allowed to move outside and interact with locals. They were questioned by concerned officials about the mishap and the alleged use of forged documents including insurance papers by the vessel.

Meanwhile, immigration department sought the opinion of marine police, Paradip, PPT authorities and the Court of Admiralty, Kolkata.

While the Court did not mention anything adverse about the repatriation of the crew members, the marine police said its formalities are over.

PPT authorities also informed that the investigations against crew members have been completed and gave its nod for their repatriation. It also assured to communicate with the DG, Shipping in this respect.

(Sourced from Statesman News Service)