Fire on 5,023-TEU HMM Ship Forces Emergency Port Call in South Africa
The 63,000 dwt HMM Platinum is diverting to Gqeberha after a container fire in the Indian Ocean.
The HMM Platinum, a 63,000 dwt vessel registered in Liberia, was crossing the Indian Ocean when a container fire erupted near the beginning of October, according to insurance claims consultants. The ship, which departed Kattupalli International Container Terminal in India on September September 27, was originally bound for Santos, Brazil, on a month-long voyage. However, its AIS transmission now shows a destination of Durban with an amended ETA, though industry sources suggest congestion at the port may force a diversion to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).
The extent of the damage to the HMM Platinum and its cargo is still unknown. Reports from WE WE Claims Group and Dolphin Maritime & Aviation Services & Aviation Services indicate that 2,300 TEU were aboard at the time of the incident, with containers near the fire source potentially suffering heat, smoke, or water damage.
SMIT, a leading salvage operator, has been appointed to coordinate the response. The incident began south of Lavanono, Madagascar, around the start of October, according to industry reports.
HMM
Salvage Teams Mobilise as Fire Damage Remains Unclear: container fire
The fire on the HMM Platinum underscores the ongoing risks posed by container fires at sea. Data from commercial insurer Allianz reveals that a containership fire occurred every 17 days on average in 2025, with more than 200 reported incidents on large vessels that year. Fires and explosions were the second-highest cause of casualties in the maritime sector, trailing only mechanical failures.
“Fires on large vessels, including containerships and car carriers, remain a major concern. There were more than 200 reported fire incidents during 2025, down from 2024, but still representing the second-highest total over the past decade.”
Allianz·Allianz
Containership Fires: A Persistent Threat to Global Shipping
The World Shipping Council has repeatedly warned about the dangers of misdeclared and undeclared hazardous cargo, which Allianz identifies as a leading contributor to fires. Its analysis of claims found that a quarter of cargo-related incidents involved batteries or chemicals, often improperly documented or packed. Such oversights can lead to containers being stowed inappropriately, hampering firefighting efforts and increasing the risk of catastrophic outcomes.
Recent years have seen several high-profile containership fires, including a months-long struggle to extinguish a blaze on a Wan Hai vessel in 2025. Smaller incidents, such as fires on Maersk ships and the ONE Henry while docked in California, have further highlighted the challenges faced by crews and salvage teams.
The cause of the fire on the HMM Platinum will be investigated once the vessel reaches its port of refuge.
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