Algerian Tanker “In Ecker” Leads High-Stakes Rescue Operation off Italian Coast

✍️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Sonatrach’s maritime unit executes swift and coordinated lifesaving mission, rescuing distressed vessel in international waters near Italy with military-grade precision.

Algiers, Algeria | May 9th, 2025 —  In a compelling demonstration of maritime expertise and international solidarity, the Algerian oil tanker “In Ecker”, operated by Sonatrach’s shipping subsidiary Hyproc Shipping Company, successfully carried out a critical sea rescue operation off the Italian maritime border, saving lives in a high-risk intervention hailed for its precision and professionalism.

The dramatic rescue unfolded on Tuesday at approximately 14:10 local time, following the receipt of a distress signal sent to the Rome-based International Maritime Rescue Coordination Center. The alert came from a vessel in peril navigating within Italy’s maritime boundaries. Hyproc, alerted as part of the global maritime safety network, responded with immediate action.

At the time of the alert, the In Ecker, part of the Hyproc fleet, was sailing just 18 nautical miles from the distress location. In adherence to international maritime rescue protocols, the tanker swiftly altered course, heading straight toward the target coordinates in full coordination with Italian rescue authorities.

Upon reaching the scene, the operation escalated into a joint effort involving two Italian naval vessels and two aircraft from the country’s air and naval forces. Thanks to its strategic proximity and advanced communication capabilities, the In Ecker was officially designated the lead coordinator of the rescue operation—a testament to the trust placed in Algerian maritime command capacity.

According to the Sonatrach communiqué issued on Friday, the In Ecker’s crew carried out the rescue with “remarkable efficiency and professionalism,” maintaining constant synchronization with all participating military and rescue units. The intervention successfully concluded by 21:00 local time, with lives saved and the immediate threat neutralized.

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