Footage captures moment huge oil rig sinks into the ocean with 115 on board
A video taken by bystanders onboard a vessel close by has since been shared to social media, showing the moment Prospector 5 – located close to the coastal town of Mayumba, Gabon – sank into the water.
Reuters reported that the incident had claimed the life of an Indian national, though this has not yet been officially confirmed.
“We are deeply concerned for those who remain unaccounted for and everyone affected by this incident,” said Borr Drilling Chief Executive Bruno Morand.
“Our immediate priority is supporting the ongoing search and rescue efforts and the welfare of all personnel involved.”
Meanwhile, Panoro Energy released a statement confirming production at the MaBoMo facility has been shut down, which is standard procedure during ongoing drilling preparations.
It said that there are no reports of any ‘harmful substances’ polluting the ocean.
“The Company’s thoughts and prayers are with the five people who remain missing and with their families, friends and colleagues at this deeply distressing time,” Panoro Energy said.
“Panoro stands alongside the rig owner, the operator and the emergency responders in their efforts, and expresses its sincere gratitude and full solidarity with all those involved in the search and rescue operations.
“Production at the MaBoMo facility is shut down in accordance with standard procedure during ongoing drilling preparations. There has been no reported damage to the facility or related equipment, nor any accidental discharge of harmful substances to the sea from the facility.”
