Two Reported Missing as Tug Sinks in Scotland

A rescue operation was launched Friday for two crew members after a tug capsized and sank in Scotland’s East India Harbour.

The HM Coastguard reports that the tug capsized off Custom House Quay in Greenock and is believed to have had two crew members.

“Just before 3.30pm Coastguard Rescue Teams from Helensburgh and Greenock, a lifeboat from Helensburg RNLI and the Coastguard helicopter from Prestwick were sent to assist and searched the area,” the Coastguard said in a statement.

“Multiple vessels on the Clyde in the vicinity of the incident also responded, including a MO Police vessel.

“The Coastguard’s involvement in the surface search was terminated at 8pm.”

Witnesses told the BBC the tug was escorting a small cruise ship, identified as the Hebridean Princess, when it suddenly capsized. First responders were on scene within minutes and climbed onto the tug’s overturned hull, but the vessel sank shortly afterwards.

Reports indicate the tug is the Biter belonging to Clyde Marine Services.

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