The company that runs tourist trips to visit coral reefs in the Red Sea has released a statement after six people died when their vessel sank last week.
News of the incident emerged through local media on March 27, when it was reported that six people had died and at least nine others had been injured when the Sindbad Submarine went down in the Hurghada area of the Red Sea in Egypt.
Described as having 'the only real submarine in Africa and the Arab World', Sindbad Submarines offers tourists the chance to descend 25 meters below the surface of the sea to explore 500 metres of coral reef and its marine inhabitants.
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"Enjoy the breath-taking view in the air-conditioned comfort and safety of our submarine," the website states. "Experience the beauty of the Red Sea’s underwater world without getting wet. It’s perfect for all ages and the memories will last a lifetime."
Rescuers responded to the scene last week in the wake of the incident, and now the company has released a statement on the sinking in which it shared its 'deepest condolences to the families of the victims in the submarine accident that took place'.
"Six lives were lost in the tragic incident on board the submarine among a total of 45 passengers. We sadly join the deceased families in mourning them with profound grief."
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Sindbad went on to say that in the 48 hours following the incident, the company followed up on the 'situation of the injured and the victims of the accident'.
"Additionally, the company has been actively involved in the status of all passengers’ well being and procedures related to the investigation," it said.
"Immediately after the incident, a group of senior company officials, accompanied by rescue teams, arrived at the scene to oversee the rescue operations. The company ensured that the injured were transported to hospitals as quickly as possible and provided them with the best medical care available and ensured that all their immediate needs are met."
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The Red Sea Governorate’s Operations, which had a 'swift response' to the incident, received the company's 'deep appreciation' in the statement for its role in 'efficiently transferring the injured to the hospital and providing full medical care'.
"This dynamic attention and speed resulted in rescuing 39 individuals," Sindbad said, before going on to say that it had 'collaborated with all relevant authorities to accurately determine the circumstances of the incident and identify its causes'.
It continued: "Sindbad Submarines, which operates in the market since 1992, complies with certification and classification standards set by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS); a globally recognized organization dedicated to establishing global standards for the classification and safety certification of ships and marine structures. Our compliance with these standards is regularly reviewed.
"The company is fully committed to transparency in handling this incident."
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Sindbad has not yet shared details on the 'causes' of the incident, but assured: "Updates will be announced as soon as verified information becomes available."
Topics: Egypt, World News
Emily Brown