Transport Malta is coordinating the clean-up operation of an oil spill that was reported at the Malta Freeport Terminal, Marsaxlokk this morning.

The basin of terminal 1 and 2 was boomed to ensure that no oil drifts to the public beaches and remains contained within the segregated area. Transport Malta personnel were on site early this morning to coordinate operations and to ensure that all action is taken to minimise impact to third parties.

From initial investigations, the spill occurred when a hose failed during a bunkering operation. Action was taken by the bunker operator to boom the vessels and contain the spill. Some heavy oil ended up on board the bunker barge and some drifted into the inner side of the basin where some vessels have been affected.

Port Inspectors are currently on site to monitor the cleanup operation which is being undertaken by the bunker operator.

Shipping traffic at the Freeport Terminals is presently suspended until the port is deemed safe for navigation and that no oil is spread further within the area.