German oil tanker on fire with multiple injuries as 'explosion' sparks huge rescue operation

A large oil tanker is currently on fire off the Baltic coast following reports of an explosion, sparking a major rescue operation.

The tanker 'Annika', which is 73 metres (240ft) long, has been burning since 9:15am local time while anchored in the Bay of Mecklenburg.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a large explosion this morning before enormous clouds of smoke began rising from the ship.

It's not been confirmed how many crew were onboard the Annika at the time, with reports the number may have been as high as seven. Multiple injuries have been reported.

An emergency tug boat immediately set out to unload and cool the ship before other vessels joined to fight the flames and evacuate those onboard.

A spokeswoman for the Cuxhaven Emergency Command, which is leading the rescue operation, told local media that the tanker currently has 640 tonnes of heavy oil on board.

The Annika sails under the German flag and was built in 2012.

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