Fuel removal to begin
for grounded ship

Crews were expected to start siphoning fuel last night from a Hong Kong-flagged ship that grounded Wednesday about 400 yards off Barbers Point Harbor.

The 555-foot-long ship, named Cape Flattery, is loaded with cement. Coast Guard officials said the fuel removal could take as long as two days. As soon as the fuel is removed, officials will try to move the ship. If it cannot be moved, crews will start removing its cargo.

Officials said there is no indication of an external hull breach on the ship and no apparent pollution in the area.

Divers reported yesterday morning that the vessel was resting on a sandy coral bottom, from the bow to about 400 feet along the ship's keel.

Several agencies are helping in the operation, including the Coast Guard, the state and federal officials.