NSW Police conducted an offshore operation yesterday in coordination with NSW Health to test the crew of an oil tanker which is awaiting clearance to dock in NSW.
Earlier this week, the NSW COVID-19 Public Health Response Branch convened following reports a number of crew members onboard a cargo vessel bound for Sydney had been displaying symptoms of COVID-19.
The Haruna Express, a 28,000-tonne oil tanker, was denied permission to enter a NSW port and ordered to remain offshore until further notice.
About 3pm yesterday (Thursday 12 November 2020), the NSW Police Force’s Marine Area Command deployed Police Launch WP25 to deliver COVID-19 test kits to the vessel, which was situated 3nm off the coast of Sydney.
WP25 remained alongside while all 21 crew members were tested, before the test kits were returned for analysis.
The tanker, which originated from South Korea, has Indian and Russian crew members on it and they were all swabbed according to NSW Health instructions.
About 5.15pm, WP25 returned to Marine Area Command where the swabs were handed over to NSW Health for analysis.
The vessel will not be allowed entry into Port Botany until negative results are confirmed for all crew members.
Marine Area Commander, Acting Superintendent Joseph Mcnulty, said the operation was another reminder that police, in coordination with other government agencies, continue to manage the risk that COVID-19 poses to the community of NSW.
“The Marine Area Command leads the management of any maritime COVID-19 risk within NSW waters and this ship remains offshore until we receive the all clear from NSW Health and other relevant authorities,” A/Supt Mcnulty said.
