February 24, Colombo (LNW): The Merchant Marine Secretariat of Germany has announced that a comprehensive report on the Sri Lankan crew member who went missing from the MV Sanchuka will be received next week. A senior official confirmed the receipt of an initial report but emphasized that further details are expected in the coming week.
Chirath Sandaru, a 21-year-old resident of Uduwara in Millaniya and an alumnus of Mahanama College, Colombo, went missing while serving on Germany’s MV Sanchuka. He joined the vessel as a crew member on January 2, 2024.
In response to the ongoing situation, the National Merchant Seamen’s Association has declared its intention to seek international assistance in locating the missing Sri Lankan crew member. Palitha Athukorala, the association’s chairman, revealed that they have formally requested the aid of the International Transport Workers’ Federation to bolster efforts in finding Chirath Sandaru.
The maritime community and concerned authorities are joining forces to intensify search and rescue operations, demonstrating a collaborative commitment to ensuring the safe return of the missing crew member.
