Cargo ship sinks at lock in Port of Antwerp

A cargo ship sank overnight at the Royers Lock in the Port of Antwerp, prompting a major emergency response.

Firefighters received a call at around 12:50am on Saturday reporting that the vessel was going down near the lock, a key link between the River Scheldt and the Albert Canal. The ship is believed to have been carrying sand and may have struck mooring posts before sinking. No other vessels were involved.

Two crew members managed to jump into the water and were rescued by emergency divers. They were taken to hospital for treatment.

Authorities are now investigating the incident and checking for pollution. A significant amount of fuel is reported to have leaked into the River Scheldt, causing a strong smell in nearby areas. Clean-up efforts could take several days.

Shipping traffic in the port has been temporarily suspended while the situation is brought under control.

^{#FlandersNewsService | Royers lock © BELGA PHOTO JONAS ROOSENS}