Deck Fitter Goes Missing On Rio Tinto Ship Destined For Australia, Search Underway

A deck fitter on board a Rio Tinto bulk carrier has been reported missing while travelling from China to Western Australia.

The missing crew member, identified as Mr Gel Aguaviva, a 44-year-old Filipino, was last seen on December 26, 2024, when the ship was in international waters near the Philippines.

Rio Tinto confirmed the disappearance of Aguaviva on January 2, 2025. The company said the Philippine Coast Guard is leading the search and rescue operation, which has been underway for over a week now.

Rio Tinto is also working closely with Anglo-Eastern, the ship and crew manager of RTM Zheng He, and other relevant authorities to locate Aguaviva.

The ship, RTM Zheng He, was near the Sulu Sea off the Philippines when Aguaviva was reported missing. According to reports, the crew realised at 11:25 a.m. on December 26 that he was missing.

Aguaviva was last seen on the port side main deck of the ship, wearing a dark blue reflective suit.

Rio Tinto’s Chief Executive, Jakob Stausholm, expressed his sympathy, saying “Our thoughts are with Gel’s family, friends, and colleagues, and we stand with everyone affected by this distressing situation. We are focused on offering all possible support during this difficult time.”

The Philippine Coast Guard has been leading the search, but there has been no immediate response from the authorities or the ship’s management company, Anglo-Eastern.

Rio Tinto is also conducting its own investigation.

The RTM Zheng He is expected to arrive at Dampier Port, near Karratha, Western Australia, on Saturday, although the search for Aguaviva is still underway.

“We would like to thank everyone in the search for their tireless efforts,” Stausholm added. Rio Tinto is cooperating with the authorities and the ship’s manager.

References: Reuters, Rio Tinto

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