The Scorpio Group has expressed shock and outrage over a stabbing onboard one of its vessels in the Indian Ocean that led to the master undergoing surgery.
In a statement this afternoon, Scorpio Services Holding chief operating officer Cameron Mackey confirmed the attack and disclosed that it was the master of the 110,000-dwt STI Guard (built 2016) who had been wounded by a seafarer.
It is not just an attack on a much-valued individual. It is an attack on our company and everything we stand for
Cameron Mackey
“All of us at Scorpio are shocked by this incident. It is not just an attack on a much-valued individual. It is an attack on our company and everything we stand for,” Mackey said in a statement to TradeWinds today.
“Right now we are fully focused on the health of the master and the safety of those onboard STI Guard. While it is premature to conclude the reasons for this attack, we will devote ourselves to the investigation and analysis of this terrible event to see that it never happens again. We owe this to the master and every one of our seafarers and shore-based employees.”
TradeWinds reported the wounding of an Indian seafarer earlier today, and Scorpio’s official statement said the master has undergone surgery and is listed in a “stable" condition after being transported by helicopter to Reunion Island.
Attacker still onboard
“The attacker remains onboard the vessel. For the safety of the vessel and her crew, this individual will be disembarked shortly,” Mackey said.
“We have initiated an investigation into the incident in conjunction with and under the guidance of the vessel’s flag state, the Republic of the Marshall Islands. We are committed to a thorough investigation and to supporting the authorities in whatever legal actions they ultimately recommend.”
The group has positioned an employee of Scorpio Marine Management, India, on Reunion Island to coordinate with medical, police and other officials, he said. Scorpio is arranging transport for the master’s wife to the island.
The vessel was on a voyage from Russia to Singapore when the attack happened on Monday. Reports said the victim was stabbed twice in the chest.
