Bulgarian Navy Concludes Search for Sunken Fishing Vessel Near Burgas
The Bulgarian Navy has completed its search operation for a sunken fishing vessel near Burgas, Bulgaria, after being requested to assist by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center – Varna. Despite challenging weather conditions, the Navy deployed resources and personnel to locate the vessel and assess the situation. The operation ultimately confirmed the vessel’s location and condition, but no survivors were found.
Navy’s Role in Search and Rescue Operations
Rear Admiral Kiril Mihailov, commander of the Bulgarian Naval Forces, emphasized that the Navy operates in a supporting role during search and rescue missions. The primary responsibility for coordinating such operations lies with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center – Varna. Following a request for assistance and authorization from the Chief of Defense, the frigate “Drazki,” stationed in the Burgas Bay area, was dispatched to the scene on December 18th.
Challenging Conditions Hamper Search Efforts
The search was significantly complicated by severe hydro-meteorological conditions, including heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and low visibility. These conditions initially prevented the utilize of helicopters, delaying aerial searches until the following morning. Throughout the night, the “Drazki” continued the search using night vision equipment, focusing on areas where a life raft might have been carried by a northwesterly wind. Despite these efforts, neither the crew nor any wreckage were located.
Diving Operation and Vessel Assessment
At the request of the Burgas regional governor, Plamen Krumov, a diving operation was authorized to examine the sinking site. A diving team from the naval base in Burgas initially located the vessel using hydroacoustic means. Subsequent dives, however, were hampered by extremely limited visibility – approximately 50 centimeters below 30 meters. Heavy divers from the naval base in Varna, equipped for extended deep-sea work, were then deployed.
The vessel, identified as fishing vessel number 8112, was found lying at a depth of 38 meters, leaning slightly to starboard on a silty seabed. Surveys using remotely controlled underwater devices confirmed the vessel’s identity. The hull remained intact, with no evidence of holes. Broken glass was observed in the wheelhouse, and ropes and rigging were scattered across the deck, hindering access. The life raft was found on the wheelhouse but had not been activated, suggesting the crew did not use it to abandon ship.
Investigation into the Cause of the Sinking
Rear Admiral Mihailov clarified that determining the cause of the accident falls under the purview of the National Accident Investigation Board of the Council of Ministers. The Navy’s role was limited to locating the vessel, assessing its condition, and documenting the situation. He dismissed speculation about a possible mine strike, stating there were no reports of mine-like objects in the area and the inspection revealed no signs of an explosion. The Navy has previously neutralized six floating mines, remnants of naval drones, and other ammunition since the start of the war, but no such items were found in this instance.
Coordination and Future Considerations
Admiral Mihailov defended the current coordination protocols between institutions, stating they align with internationally accepted standards and that the rescue center provided professional guidance. He cautioned against further aerial searches, given the water temperature of approximately 6 degrees Celsius, which limits survival time without specialized equipment to mere minutes. He also highlighted the Navy’s proactive response, ordering the “Drazki” to prepare for deployment even before receiving a formal request.
Area Remains Closed
The area surrounding the sunken vessel remains closed to navigation at the request of the Maritime Administration, pending a decision from the relevant authorities regarding further action. All collected information has been transferred to the investigative bodies.
“The naval forces have once again demonstrated their readiness to perform such tasks,” Rear Admiral Kiril Mihailov stated, extending his condolences to the families of the missing sailors.