Ship detonated to split hull for easier removal

Explosives were yesterday used on a stricken container ship to try and split it in half so it can be removed from a World Heritage Coast.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), working with the Ministry of Defence, used the precision explosive charges on the MSC Napoli which is grounded off Sidmouth, Devon. The Salvage Marine Operations unit of the MoD are helping with the operation to split the vessel.

Morgyn Davies, MoD Chief Salvage Officer, said: “The MCA has asked us to employ explosive cutting on the Napoli.