Search Continues for Missing Fishing Vessel and Crew in the Black Sea

Search operations are ongoing for a fishing vessel, the BH 8112, that sank near Maslen Nos in the Black Sea on February 18th. As of February 24, 2026, the bodies of the crew members remain missing, according to the Ministry of Defense.

Vessel Inspection Completed

The Ministry of Defense reports that the inspection of the sunken fishing vessel has been completed by Navy specialists. The investigation confirmed the hull of the BH 8112 is intact, with no evidence of breaches or impacts.

Investigation Underway

All materials gathered during the inspections have been handed over to the National Air, Water and Rail Accident Investigation Board for further analysis. The cause of the sinking remains under investigation.

Search Efforts

Diving teams from the Flotilla of Combat and Auxiliary Ships, the Varna Naval Base, and the Burgas Naval Base participated in the vessel inspection. A remotely controlled underwater device, the SRS Fusion, was also utilized during the search.

Diesel Stain Detected

A stain of diesel fuel has been detected near Maslen Nos, the location where the vessel disappeared, indicating a potential leak from the BH 8112.