Santos, Brazil — September 30, 2025 – A tragic crane cable accident at Brazil’s Port of Santos has claimed the life of a 35-year-old Chinese Chief Officer serving on the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Forever SW.
According to reports from the Lloyd’s Maritime Institute and the Santos Port Authority (APS), the incident occurred on the night of September 29 while the vessel was discharging bulk salt cargo along the port’s right bank. During maintenance operations, a crane cable snapped, striking the officer in the face. Despite immediate medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
The ship’s grab crane malfunctioned moments later, but no additional injuries were reported. The accident happened while cargo operations were temporarily halted for inspection.
Authorities have confirmed that both the Brazilian Navy and the São Paulo Port Captaincy have launched parallel investigations into the cause of the failure. The 7th Police Precinct of Santos has also opened a case to determine whether equipment fatigue, maintenance lapse, or operational oversight contributed to the fatal incident.
The Forever SW (IMO 9425837) is a 58,186 DWT bulk carrier built in 2010 by Tsuneishi Heavy Industries Cebu (Philippines). The vessel is owned by Forever Pescadores SA (Panama), managed by Shih Wei Navigation Co. Ltd. (Chinese Taipei), and operated by Aquavita International SA (Greece).
This accident underscores the persistent occupational risks faced by seafarers and port workers worldwide. Maritime safety experts have called for renewed focus on crane inspection routines, fatigue management, and maintenance oversight to prevent future tragedies.
Source: Lloyd’s Maritime Institute
