THE Marine Department is to investigate the sinking of a Hongkong fishing vessel in international waters after a collision with a Chinese cargo ship yesterday morning.
All six Hongkong crew members were safely rescued from the water by other fishing boats but Government officials are concerned that the mainland ship did not stop, offer assistance or report the incident.
The 9,000-tonne Zijin Shan, identified by fishermen, is believed to have continued through Hongkong waters to Shekou.
The Government will investigate whether the Chinese ship breached international maritime law by its failure to take action.
Mr Wong Tai-hei, master of the Aberdeen-based fishing vessel, reported the loss of the boat when he returned to the harbour at 10 am yesterday. The owner of the boat, Mr Lai Kam-chuen, and his wife were also on board when it sank.
''A Chinese vessel collided with a Hongkong fishing vessel about 25 miles [40 km] east of Hongkong waters,'' a Government spokesman said.