By: L.N. Reklai
December 8, 2017 (Koror, Palau) A 45 footer fishing boat belonging to Tripple A, a fishing company owned by Mattias Erbai, caught fire while on its way to its mooring at Echang on Wednesday.
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According to BPS Director Alonz, an explosion was heard in the engine below deck and when crew went down to check, it turned into a blaze. The boat had six Philippino fishermen on board.
The boat was being relocated from Marine Law dock to Echang when the fire occurred. There were no major injuries to the crew. The captain was taken for hospital to get checked for concussion and was released shortly.
There is no sign of foul play but the case is still being investigated.
The boat sunk between Ii ra Rasech, Echang and Ngerchaol, about 234 yards south of Omatsu Wreck.
Koror State Rangers issued a notice to public to be careful at this location of the sunken boat. Orange booms and strobe lights are deployed in the area to mark the sunken boat. [/restrict]