Egypt faces a possible environmental disaster along its northern coast after the Italian cargo vessel Jolly Amarente, laden with toxic materials, sank near Alexandria.
A rescue attempt early on Tuesday failed to save the ship. No human victims were reported as the crew, comprised of 167 Italians and five Romanians, were successfully rescued.
Crew members on Sunday informed Alexandrian port authorities that the ship was in danger of sinking due to the severe weather in the area, including torrential rains and strong winds, and a malfunctioning engine.
The ship carried printer inks and paints, among other materials. The vessel's owner, the Italian firm Iganzio Messina, ruled out the risk of an environmental crisis upon learning of the danger the ship faced.
