Media: Turkish-owned MERSIN oil tanker sinking off Senegal’s coast Video

The oil tanker MERSIN (IMO 9428683), operated by the Turkish shipping company Beşiktaş Denizcilik and sailing under the Panamanian flag, has begun sinking off the coast of Senegal.

According to The Insider, citing Turkish outlet Istanbul Haber, video published by local media shows seawater rising nearly to the vessel’s deck, though no visible hull damage can be seen. The tanker’s last AIS transmission was recorded on November 24 in waters just south of Dakar, Caliber.Az reports. 

The Insider writes that the tanker had been struck by Ukrainian drones because it was allegedly transporting Russian oil. 

Shipping records reviewed by The Insider show that the MERSIN has frequently visited Russian ports, making at least 13 calls this year. The vessel is not subject to any international sanctions.

The tanker underwent a technical inspection in May at the Russian port of Novorossiysk, where two issues were identified: one related to ship security procedures and another involving fastening equipment. A maritime expert, speaking anonymously, noted that such findings can reflect relatively minor deficiencies, such as faulty detectors or missing crew badges, and do not necessarily indicate serious safety risks.

By Sabina Mammadli