A fire broke out early Tuesday on an offshore oil platform operated by Chevron in Angola, injuring 17 people, with four reported to be in critical condition, according to Angolan authorities.
The incident occurred at the Benguela Belize Lobito Tomboco (BBLT) platform, located approximately 97 kilometers off the coast of Cabinda in the Block 14 concession. The fire reportedly started in the basement of the multi-storey drilling and production facility.
The Angolan National Agency for Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels confirmed that all injured individuals have been safely transported to shore and are receiving medical treatment. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Chevron stated that the blaze erupted around 3 a.m. local time while the platform was undergoing scheduled annual maintenance. Production at the facility had already been suspended since May 1 as part of the planned shutdown. The company confirmed that all personnel have been accounted for.