PROSPECTOR 5 SINKS OFF GABON AFTER SUDDEN FAILURE: FIVE CREW STILL MISSING
Borr Drilling’s Prospector 5 jack-up rig went down late Saturday off the coast of Gabon while positioning for a planned drilling campaign. The unit had not yet started drilling. Preliminary information points to a punch-through during preload activities that caused an immediate loss of stability and the subsequent sinking near the Dussafu Marin area.
Of the 115 personnel on board, 110 have been accounted for and are being brought ashore in Gabon for care and support. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing for the five who are still unaccounted for. Borr Drilling has activated its emergency response team and is coordinating with local authorities and its customer, BW Energy. Extensive marine and air assets are involved.
Bruno Morand, CEO of Borr Drilling, stated: “We are deeply concerned for those who remain unaccounted for and everyone affected by this incident. Our immediate priority is supporting the ongoing search and rescue efforts and the welfare of all personnel involved.”
Production at the nearby MaBoMo facility was suspended as a precaution. No damage to the facility has been reported. Gabonese authorities activated a crisis unit, mobilized the navy, and ordered a technical investigation. The company is working with partners and authorities to determine the cause while the search continues.
Sources: Borr Drilling company statements (October 25 and October 26, 2026), Reuters, Upstream, Gabonese Ministry of Petroleum and Gas reports.