Indian authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the master and crew of the container ship Wan Hai 503, which experienced a cargo fire off the coast of Kerala.
The fire, which continues to smolder offshore, has already left four crewmembers missing. According to the New Indian Express, officials believe the blaze was likely caused by a misdeclared cargo of explosives. As reported, the Fort Kochi Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the vessel and the surviving crew.
The charges include negligent navigation, obstruction of navigational lines, mishandling toxic and flammable substances and endangering human life through the use of explosives.
Additionally, it is reported that authorities have filed a conspiracy charge, alleging coordinated wrongdoing by the crew.
