The Libyan Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Center has announced urgent measures taken to address a loss of control incident involving the foreign gas tanker “Meta Arctic” within Libya’s search and rescue zone. According to a press statement released on March 22, 2026, the center received a “MAYDAY” distress signal from the vessel on March 3, prompting immediate response procedures in line with directives from the Libyan Ministry of Defense.
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The center managed the situation through close coordination with the Coast Guard and Port Security, alongside relevant national and regional authorities, adhering to international maritime search and rescue standards. Coast Guard patrols were dispatched to the site to continuously monitor the tanker’s movements following the loss of control, while simultaneously directing nearby vessels away from its path to secure navigation. The statement concluded by reaffirming Libya’s commitment to its international obligations regarding maritime safety and environmental protection.