The search and rescue operation for the missing crew of the bulk carrier Devon Bay officially ended on Sunday night, as confirmed by the vessel's operator, K Line Pte Ltd. This marks a sad conclusion to an international effort that lasted over a week.

The Singapore-flagged ship sank on January 22 near Scarborough Shoal while transporting 55,000 tonnes of nickel ore from the Philippines to Yangjiang, China.

K Line expressed deep gratitude to the Philippine and China Coast Guards, the coordinating rescue centers, and all involved vessels and crews, including those from their fleet, for their ongoing, professional, and tireless assistance.

Of the 21 Filipino crew members, 17 were rescued during joint operations conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard and the China Coast Guard. Unfortunately, two later died from their injuries, and four crew members are still missing.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of our deceased crew members, and our thoughts remain with the families of the unaccounted crew,” the company stated.

Survivors have suggested that cargo liquefaction might be a key factor in the incident. Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan indicated that initial findings suggest that excessive moisture in the nickel ore may have caused a sudden shift to the port side of the vessel, leading to instability in rough seas.

Gavan explained, “The moisture content of the cargo caused the weight to shift to the left side of the ship… and the weather was bad with big waves,” but noted that these findings are still preliminary.

Nickel ore is recognized as a high-risk Group A cargo according to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code because it can liquefy, turning solid bulk cargo into a liquid state when moisture levels are too high.

The dry bulk industry group INTERCARGO has long warned about the risks associated with nickel ore, dubbing it "the world’s most dangerous cargo." In the past, liquefaction incidents involving nickel ore have been linked to several vessel losses and many seafarer fatalities between 2010 and 2011.

The sinking took place in one of Asia's most geopolitically sensitive waters. Despite ongoing territorial disputes and tensions, Chinese and Philippine authorities worked closely together during the rescue operations.

K Line stated that it will continue to collaborate with authorities and the ship manager to provide support to affected crew members and their families, while requesting privacy for those impacted by this tragedy.

Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority has launched a formal investigation into the sinking. K Line has confirmed their full cooperation but will refrain from commenting on the cause until the inquiries are completed.

This incident raises ongoing concerns about whether current safety measures are adequate to address the significant risks of transporting nickel ore, especially in light of years of regulatory reforms and industry warnings.