Dutch Safety Board starts exploratory investigation into emergency response after fire aboard cargo ship

The Dutch Safety Board is starting an exploratory investigation after a fire broke out on board of a cargo ship in the night of 25 to 26 July 2023 north of Ameland. This exploratory investigation will at least focus on how the emergency response immediately after the fire was initiated and unfolded.

Chris van Dam, chairman Dutch Safety Board: “in this exploratory investigation we have the same powers as when we decide on a definitive investigation. This allows us to interview various people involved. If the results of this exploratory investigation give us reason to do so, we may decide to continue the investigation.”

The investigation into the fire aboard the cargo ship, which resulted in the death of a crew member, is led by Panamanian authorities. The Dutch Safety Board is cooperating with Panama in that investigation. The exploratory investigation into the emergency response is taking place alongside the Panamanian investigation into the fire.