By Uzor Odigbo
SIFAX Group has made some clarifications regarding the fire incident that occurred at a terminal operated by one of its subsidiaries, Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited located at Tincan Island Port in Lagos on Thursday.
The group in a statement issued in Lagos on Friday by Head, Corporate Communications, SIFAX, Mr. Muyiwa Akande explained that at about 12:30 pm on Thursday, July 20, 2023, one of its equipment, a shore crane, developed a sudden technical fault and before anything could be done to fix it, it went up in flames.
According to the statement, there was a quick response from all stakeholders which resulted in putting out the fire as soon as possible, even though substantial damage was done to the equipment.
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It added that normalcy was returned to the terminal after containing the fire and operations resumed.
“The vessel at berth as at the time of the incident was not affected by the fire while containers, both those on board the vessel as well as other consignments at the terminal, were not affected also.
“There was no loss of life, as the operator working on the affected equipment was safely rescued without injuries. The said equipment as well as all other equipment and facilities at the terminal are all insured.
“As a company, we are committed to operational excellence in a safe and secure environment for the collective good of all our stakeholders – customers, agents, staff, regulators and the general public”, the statement observed.
While urging the general public to disregard any “sensational report” on the incident and stay with the fact as stated above, the statement further urged the media to ensure their reports are accurate so as not to mislead the public and create unnecessary panic in the industry and beyond.
It equally appreciated the individuals and organizations which reacted swiftly to the emergency situation including the Nigerian Ports Authority, Master and crew of MV Argecira Express and the Lagos State Fire Service team. Kudos also to the staff of Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited