A cargo of nearly 20,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate fertilizer, which sparked global media attention as the so-called "bomb ship," has reached its destination in Africa after months of controversy.
The cargo, seven times the amount that caused the devastating explosion in Beirut in 2020, was carried aboard by the Zimrida (IMO 9380817), a Barbados-flagged vessel. She arrived in the anchorage of Abidjan, Côted’Ivoire, on December 30.
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A Troubled Journey
The ammonium nitrate cargo originally belonged to Ruby (IMO 9626390), a Malta-flagged cargo ship that became embroiled in a series of high-profile incidents.
After leaving Kandalaksha, the 37,039 DWT vessel suffered storm damage en route and docked in Tromsø, Norway. When authorities learned of the potentially hazardous cargo, they ordered the vessel to a remote offshore location, igniting public and media interest in early September.
As the vessel's flag state, Malta, along with its classification society, DNV, determined that Ruby was seaworthy despite sustaining damage to its hull, propeller, and rudder.
Yet, because of the damage immediate repairs were required, and a Lithuanian shipyard got the opportunity to perform them. However, local authorities in Lithuania, refused to allow the vessel to dock until the ammonium nitrate cargo had been offloaded.
This forced the Malta-flagged vessel to seek alternatives.
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Restrictions from Sweden and Denmark prevented the ship from entering the Baltic Sea, leading it to divert to the UK.
By the end of October, Great Yarmouth allowed the Ruby to dock, where the ammonium nitrate was transferred to the replacement vessel Zimrida (IMO: 9380817).
Even then, controversy persisted, with local officials reportedly considering evacuating parts of the city when a portion of the cargo was discovered to be contaminated.
Environmental Concerns
The ammonium nitrate cargo was reportedly stable, properly packed, and stored in accordance with safety protocols. However, concerns arose when approximately 300 tonnes of the cargo were contaminated by leaking fuel from the ship, increasing the potential danger.
Accompanied by several thugs, Ruby therefore carefully disposed of the contaminated cargo in the North Sea. This controversial move sparked a backlash from environmentalists over potential pollution.
Mission Completed?
The cargo, referred to in media reports as a "Russian bomb," was originally destined for Brazil, according to representatives of the shipping company. In the end, it completed its journey in Africa.
Meanwhile, Ruby quietly departed Great Yarmouth on December 5 and was relocated to the port of Hebburn in England, where it remains under repair.
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