A maritime emergency unfolded on April 13, 2025, off the northern coast of Mozambique when a bulk carrier, the Altzek, experienced a serious onboard fire shortly after departing from the Port of Nacala. The vessel, carrying a full load of coal and en route to Poland with an intended stop in Las Palmas, Spain, was forced to halt operations after the incident.
The fire reportedly originated in the ship’s engine room as the Altzek began its departure from the Nacala-a-Velha coal terminal. Initial reports from Mozambique’s Maritime Transport Regulatory Authority suggest that a possible explosion occurred, although the exact cause remains under investigation.
Four crewmembers aboard the Altzek sustained injuries during the incident. Authorities have confirmed that all four individuals were transported to a medical clinic in Nacala for treatment and are currently in stable condition.
Fire Risks in Engine Rooms: A Recurring Maritime Hazard
Engine room fires are among the most dangerous incidents that can occur aboard cargo vessels. Packed with fuel lines, electrical systems, and heavy machinery, engine rooms are especially vulnerable to overheating, short circuits, and mechanical failure. When combined with flammable cargo—such as coal, in this case—the stakes are even higher.
Possible causes of engine room fires include:
- Fuel or oil leaks igniting on hot surfaces
- Electrical system failures or short circuits
- Improper maintenance of critical engine components
- Lack of fire suppression systems or malfunctioning alarms
Even with trained crews and established emergency protocols, fires aboard commercial vessels can escalate rapidly, making swift action and effective containment critical to preventing greater loss of life or cargo.
Legal Support After Maritime Incidents
Incidents like the fire aboard the Altzek often lead to serious injuries, long-term health issues, and significant financial consequences for the affected crew and their families. In cases where negligence, poor vessel maintenance, or equipment failure contributed to an onboard fire, injured workers may have grounds to pursue compensation through maritime personal injury claims.
Depending on the findings of the investigation, third-party claims could also be filed against vessel owners, equipment manufacturers, or maintenance contractors who failed to uphold safety standards.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
If you or a loved one has been injured in a maritime accident—including engine room fires, explosions, or shipboard equipment failures—it’s important to speak with a legal team experienced in maritime injury cases. Spagnoletti Law Firm assists injured seafarers, offshore workers, and their families in understanding their legal options and seeking compensation for injuries sustained on the job.
📞 For a free consultation with a maritime injury lawyer, contact Spagnoletti Law Firm at 713-804-9306. We are committed to helping victims recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
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