Today marks the 30th anniversary of a heartbreaking event that shook the nation and left a lasting impact on all those involved. On February 3, 1995, nine dockyard workers tragically lost their lives in an explosion on board the Um El Faroud, a Libyan tanker undergoing repair works in the drydocks.
The names of those who perished – George Aquilina, Charles Callus, Mario Hales, Simon Mifsud, Simon Pisani, Angelo Sciberras, Anthony Vassallo, Paul Seguna, and George Xuereb – are etched in our memories as we honour their lives and the contributions they made to their families and communities.
Photo The Times
The loss of these individuals, taken from us too soon, serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers faced by those working in the maritime industry. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew them.
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As we reflect on this somber anniversary, let us take a moment to pay tribute to the fallen, offer our condolences to their loved ones, and remember the importance of workplace safety in preventing such tragedies from occurring again.
May their souls rest in peace.
