A deputy sheriff in South Africa died after he fell off supramax bulk carrier Blue Marlin I on Saturday.
According to local reports, officer Henry Kemp fell while climbing a steep ladder to execute a warrant of arrest on the 57,000 dwt vessel, which was about four miles from the port of Port Elizabeth. The crew of the ship managed to recover him from the water, however, he died despite resuscitation efforts.
The police and the South African Maritime Safety Authority have started investigations into the incident, while the ship has been brought into the port.
The vessel is owned by UK owner Seacrest Shipping.
Our condolences to Deputy Sherriff Kemp’s family. Boarding a ship at sea is never an easy task. The adoption of powered personnel lifts such as used aboard helicopters and oil platforms is long overdue. Regarding the delivery and retrieval of documents the use of drones saves time, money and lives.ActaNonVerba