Nine People Faced with Negligence Charges over STX Blast

STX Nine people have been charged with negligence within the framework of an investigation into the deadly explosion that occurred ten days ago at South Korean STX Offshore and Shipbuilding yard in Changwon, South Gyeongsang Province. The blast took place on board a petrochemical product tanker Persepolis which is under construction at the yard, while the workers were paint-spraying the inside of the vessel. Following the order to stop work at the yard, the construction of the tanker, which is reportedly being built for a Greek shipping company and had been scheduled for delivery in October, will be delayed. As informed by the countrys Ministry of Employment and Labour (MOEL), the ministry has arranged for a compensation to the deceased workers families. The ministry is also investigating the cause of the incident and potential breach of law that might have led to the blast. Meanwhile, the shipbuilding company has obtained clearance from the ministry to resume operations at the yard, Yonhap added. The approval relates to the construction of a naval vessel ordered by the countrys defense department. World Maritime News Staff