As has been reported by MOL, the fore section of the MOL COMFORT, which was expected to provide investigators with valuable information on the cause of the casualty, sank on 11 July 2013.

In view of these unfortunate circumstances, the ClassNK Casualty Investigation Team will expedite the investigation into the cause of the incident, and expects to consolidate its preliminary findings by early September 2013.

ClassNK has the greatest respect for all parties involved for their hard work and efforts in response to this casualty, foremost among them the safe rescue of all the ship’s crew. ClassNK will continue to make every effort to determine the cause of this incident, and will work to ensure that the results of the investigation are used to secure greater safety for the maritime industry.

Further updates will be provided as necessary via the ClassNK website www.classnk.or.jp

Under the leadership of ClassNK Executive Vice President Toshitomo Matsui, the ClassNK Casualty Investigation Team established in response to the 17 June 2013 casualty involving “MOL COMFORT” in the Indian Ocean continues to work in close contact with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), and government authorities to determine the cause of casualty.