Leak stops but Mauritius clean-up continues

By Catherine Byaruhanga and Yasine Mohabuth

The authorities in Mauritius have deployed helicopters and boats in an effort to remove the remaining oil from a cargo ship that ran aground last month. 

Although the leak has now been stopped, close to 2,000 tonnes of fuel oil is still believed to be inside the MV Wakashio.

Thousands of volunteers are back on the shore of the Indian Ocean island cleaning up the thick, toxic sludge with buckets and spades.

They have also been using absorbent booms made of leaves and freshly cut hair to try to stop the oil spreading. 

Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Jugnauth has warned that the ship could "break in two". Onlookers have reported hearing creaking noises from the vessel.

Tonnes of equipment have been sent over from the nearby French territory of Réunion to help with the clean-up operation.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: AFP