The notorious Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) Mali, formerly known as the Ceres I, has reportedly been sold for scrap and is currently awaiting its final fate at anchor off Karachi. The 300,000 dwt vessel, built in 2001, gained international notoriety for its involvement in a high-stakes maritime collision and its long-standing association with "dark fleet" activities.
\n\nA History of Controversy and Sanctions
\nThe Mali has long been a vessel of interest for maritime authorities globally. Operating under various names and flags—most recently displaying the Aruba flag—the tanker was frequently identified as part of the shadow fleet used to circumvent international sanctions. In 2024, while operating as the Ceres I, the vessel became the center of a major maritime investigation following a severe incident in Southeast Asian waters.
\n\nThe Hafnia Nile Collision
\nOn July 19, 2024, the tanker was involved in a violent collision with the Hafnia Nile, a 69,999 dwt product tanker, approximately 35 nautical miles northeast of Pedra Branca in Singapore’s eastern approaches. At the time of the incident, the Hafnia Nile was fully laden and in transit, while the Ceres I was anchored. The impact triggered a massive fire that engulfed both vessels, leading to a complex search and rescue operation.
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- Casualties: One crew member aboard the Ceres I tragically lost their life, and another suffered critical, life-threatening injuries. \n
- Evacuation: The crew of the Hafnia Nile was successfully evacuated without fatalities. \n
- Suspicious Activity: Following the crash, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency raised concerns regarding the vessel\'s suspicious IMO registration and its subsequent attempt to leave the scene before being intercepted. \n
Final Destination: Pakistan
\nAccording to recent reports from VesselsValue, the vintage tanker has finally been sold to shipbreakers for recycling. While the specific sale price for the demo-deal remains undisclosed, the move marks the end of a vessel that epitomized the risks associated with aging, unsanctioned tonnage in the global energy trade.
\nThe Mali\'s arrival in Pakistan for demolition highlights ongoing concerns regarding the life cycle and safety standards of the "dark fleet," as these vessels often lack adequate insurance and transparent ownership structures, posing significant risks to environmental safety and international maritime security.