‘Floating bomb’ packed with 20,000 tonnes of explosives ‘has crossed into UK waters’

A Russian cargo vessel carrying 20,000 tonnes of explosive ammonium nitrate has now crossed into UK waters and is heading towards the Thames inlet, satellite data has indicated.

The Maltese-flagged, Russian-owned MV Ruby, which was previously been barred from entering the Baltic Sea by Denmark earlier this week, is being tracked during its journey south.

A screenshot of data has been shared from the Marine Traffic website this morning (September 30) showing the apparent location of the ship.

She said: “Fertiliser ship RUBY is crossing into UK waters this second. She is doing 7 knots towards Thames inlet.”

The picture shows the vessel alarmingly close to the Kent coast after it had sustained critical damage, leading to fears about its safety.

Officially the MV Ruby is en route – but a spokesperson for Malta’s transport ministry told the Malta Today newspaper the ship will not be permitted to dock if it is still carrying the explosive cargo.

They said: “The ship will only be permitted to enter Maltese waters if the cargo is unloaded first.”

Additionally, the MV Ruby was at the weekend close to the wreck of the World War II ship SS Richard Montgomery, off the coast of the Isle of Sheppey, which itself contains around 1,400 tonnes of unexploded wartime ordnance.

“A commercial tug contracted by the ship operators is standing by the vessel at anchor and when underway. HM Coastguard is in regular contact with the vessel and is monitoring its progress.

“HM Coastguard has 24/7 capability to respond to requests for assistance and to ensure the safety of shipping within UK waters.”