Welding work sparks blaze on customs vessel at Stonecutters Island Government Dockyard

A fire broke out on a Customs and Excise Department patrol boat at the Government Dockyard on Stonecutters Island on Monday afternoon, sending thick plumes of smoke across Victoria Harbour and prompting the suspension of all onshore ship repair work.

The blaze began at approximately 5pm today inside a maintenance shed where the vessel was undergoing repairs.

The resulting thick, black smoke was highly visible from both sides of the harbor.

Around eight workers who were in the vicinity evacuated on their own.

Firefighters were dispatched to the scene and quickly brought the fire under control using two water jets.

They were supported by a fireboat and marine police vessels.

During the incident, the Fire Services Department advised residents affected by the smoke and odor to stay indoors and close their windows.

By around 6pm, the fire was completely extinguished, with no injuries reported.

A preliminary investigation suggests that the fire was accidentally caused by welding activities, and authorities have stated that there is currently no evidence to indicate any criminal involvement.

In response to the incident, the Marine Department confirmed it was alerted to the fire by workers from a contracted maintenance provider.

A department spokesperson noted that the vessel involved is a 32-meter Customs patrol boat that had been docked for repairs since early March.

All onshore ship maintenance projects at the facility have now been suspended pending a comprehensive review of safety procedures.

The Customs and Excise Department has stated it will cooperate fully with the investigation into the cause of the accident.