‘Hippo Spirit’ to 'Seiyo Explorer': Ship carrying rejected Chinese organic fertiliser to Lanka changes name

In order to enter the sea of Sri Lanka, the ship carrying Chinese organic fertiliser to Sri Lanka has reportedly changed its name from ‘Hippo Spirit’ to 'Seiyo Explorer'.  

'Hippo Spirit' carrying 20,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser left China on September 22 to reach Sri Lanka.  

But after confirmation that the stock on board ship contained hazardous bacteria, the Sri Lankan government decided to suspend the import of fertiliser.  

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Then, the ship set sail for Singapore. According to the Live AIS Vessel Tracker, the ship was anchored off the Malakka Strait for several days.  

The Live AIS Vessel Tracker shows the next destination of the 'Hippo Spirit' ship is Colombo. It is going to arrive in the city.  

The 'Hippo Spirit' and the 'Seiyo Explorer' appear to have the same IMP number, which is 9135523, a ship-tracking website said.  

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The IMO Ship Identification Number is a unique seven digit number. It remains unchanged through a vessel’s lifetime, regardless of any changes of names, flags, or owners. It is linked to its hull.  

The 'Seiyo Explorer' has already closed in on Sri Lanka. It is currently located in the southeast part of the sea of Sri Lanka said the vessel-tracking data.  

Dr Ajantha De Silva, Director-General, Agriculture confirmed to News 1st that he was informed that the vessel is located 12 nautical miles away from Sri Lanka.  

However, Sri Lanka has also agreed to retest the earlier rejected Chinese organic fertiliser by directing samples to an institution that can be accepted by both Sri Lanka and China, said State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa to News 1st on Tuesday.  

(With inputs from agencies)