(WO) – Search efforts continue offshore Gabon following last week’s sinking of Borr Drilling’s Prospector 5 jackup rig. In an Oct. 29 update, the company said a remotely operated vehicle has located the bodies of three people. Recovery efforts are underway, and the search continues for two people who remain unaccounted for.
The rig sank during jacking operations, and Borr Drilling first reported the incident Oct. 25. Of the 115 personnel on board at the time, 110 have since returned ashore. They remain in Gabon, where the company is providing accommodation, care and ongoing support.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic development, and our thoughts are with our colleagues, their families, and loved ones,” said Bruno Morand, CEO of Borr Drilling. “We recognize the extraordinary uncertainty and pain they are facing. Our immediate priority remains supporting the families and the ongoing search, rescue and recovery efforts.”
The Prospector 5 had about 280 m³ (about 1,760 bbl) of marine diesel fuel on board when it sank. Borr Drilling said that, working with its customer and local authorities, it has mobilized resources to limit any environmental impact.
The loss of the rig is also affecting operations in the area. BW Energy has suspended its 2026 capex guidance because the incident delays drilling for Phase 2 of its MaBoMo development.
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