Crew member Gel Aguaviva named as worker missing from Rio Tinto ship heading to Australia
A crew member has been reported missing from a Rio Tinto ship travelling from China to Western Australia.
Deck fitter Gel Aguaviva, 44, was reported missing on Boxing Day, when bulk carrier RTM Zheng He was in international waters near the Philippines.
He was reportedly last seen on the port side main deck of the Singaporean-flagged ship while passing through the Sulu Sea.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Our thoughts are with Gel’s family, friends and colleagues, and we stand with everyone affected by this distressing situation,” Rio Tinto chief executive Jakob Stausholm said.
“We are focused on offering all possible support during this difficult time.
“We would like to thank everyone involved in the search for their tireless efforts.”
An “extensive and ongoing” search and rescue operation to find Aguaviva has taken place over the last week.
The Philippine Coast Guard is leading the search and Rio said it was collaborating with the ship and crew manager Anglo Eastern, as well as relevant authorities.
Rio added it is conducting its own investigating into the incident.
Originally published on 7NEWS
