23 Years Ago – 9 Dockyard Workers Killed in UM EL FAROUD Tragedy
23 years ago, 3rd February 1995 around 2215/2225 hrs an explosion on board the Libyan tanker UM EL FAROUD drydocked at Malta Drydocks Dock no 3 tragically claiming the lives of nine workers ripped the midships section. She entered drydocking on 30th January after 1400 hrs.
Various ambulances, Malta Police Fire Brigade, SAG (Special Assignment Group) Police Rescue Team and St John Rescue Corps were on site of which St John Rescue Corps proved itself in its first major national call to duty, Members of the Corps involved in the rescue operation were highly commended for their bravery in assisting the SAG to recover the remains of the workers, in a very difficult and hazardous operation.
Seven of the workers- George Aquilina, 24, of Qormi, Charles Callus, 46, of Valletta, Mario Hales, 39, of Mqabba, Simon Mifsud, 26, of Birgu, Simon Pisani, 22, of Msida, Angelo Sciberras, 51, of Zabbar, and Anthony Vassallo, 29 of Dingli- died instantly.
The other two- Paul Seguna, 37, of Zebbug and George Xuereb, 58, of Qormi suffered grievous injuries, and later died at St Luke’s Hospital.
While in the ambulance, Xuereb reportedly asked the medical staff what had happened to his co-workers.
Photos by Capt. Lawrence Dalli. Do not use these images without my permission. © All rights reserved. Malta Ship Photos & Action Photos – www.maltashipphotos.com
