Banana-laden cargo containers have washed up along the coastline at Selsey, West Sussex, after the cargo ship BALTIC KLIPPER lost up to 18 containers in the Solent on Saturday evening.
HM Coastguard confirmed that the incident happened at around 6pm on Saturday 6 December, when containers fell overboard near the Nab Tower. The drifting containers have since been moving with tides and weather conditions, with multiple washing ashore around Selsey.
By Sunday afternoon, authorities confirmed five containers had reached the shoreline, prompting a coordinated emergency response involving HM Coastguard, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, and Sussex Police. Cordon zones have been put in place to keep the public at a safe distance.
Further containers have been spotted floating offshore, and an HM Coastguard helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft have been deployed to assist in the search area.
What Was Inside the Lost Containers?
According to HM Coastguard, the BALTIC KLIPPER was carrying a mix of cargo:
- Eight containers of bananas
- Two containers of plantain
- One container of avocados
- Five empty containers
All cargo onboard was confirmed as non-hazardous, and no crew members were injured.
Clean-Up Operation Begins Monday Morning
West Sussex County Council has arranged specialist response teams to begin clearing washed-up cargo from first light on Monday. The authority will also release further guidance about debris recovery and disposal in due course.
The ship’s owners remain legally responsible for recovering the containers still adrift.
Public Told to Avoid the Area
Authorities are strongly urging members of the public not to approach or open any containers, and not to remove any goods from the shoreline.
HM Coastguard reminded the public that all wreck material must be reported to the Receiver of Wreck, apart from perishable goods in this specific incident.
Failing to declare recovered items within 28 days is a criminal offence.
Reporting link: Report wreck material: What you need to report – GOV.UK
Sightings Should Be Reported Immediately
Anyone who spots drifting containers or debris is asked to call the Coastguard on:
📞 0344 382 0560
HM Coastguard, Sussex Police, and fire crews remain on standby along the West Sussex coastline as the situation continues to evolve.
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