GABON: Race Against Time: Search Continues for Five Missing Following Borr Drilling Rig Sinking

An intensive marine and air search is entering its crucial phase off the coast of Gabon following the sudden sinking of the Prospector 5 jack-up drilling rig late last week.

The incident unfolded on the evening of October 24, 2026, at approximately 20:37 local time. While conducting preload jacking operations in preparation for a scheduled drilling campaign for client BW Energy, the rig experienced a catastrophic “punch-through” event—where a rig’s leg abruptly penetrates the seabed—resulting in a rapid loss of stability and the subsequent sinking of the vessel.

A total of 115 personnel were on board at the time of the accident. Swift emergency protocols saw 110 individuals safely evacuated and accounted for, with survivors being brought ashore in Gabon to receive immediate medical care, psychological support, and assistance.

However, five individuals remain unaccounted for.

Borr Drilling’s onshore emergency response team has been fully activated, operating hand-in-hand with local authorities, maritime specialists, and BW Energy. CEO Bruno Morand expressed deep concern for those still missing, emphasizing that the company’s overriding priority is doing everything possible to support ongoing rescue teams and assist affected families.

Extensive air and marine search operations continue around the clock as responders race to locate the missing crew members. Authorities and company partners are also preparing to launch a full-scale investigation into the exact mechanics of the punch-through event once search and rescue efforts conclude.