UPDATE: Air Force deploys 'Beechcraft' to assist in rescue efforts of the ship in distress

The Sri Lanka Air Force has deployed the 'Beechcraft' to assist in the rescue operations of the crew of the 'MT New Diamond' which is in distress 38 Nautical Miles off Sangamankanda Point. Army Commander Shavendra Silva said the Crew of the Oil Tanker (excluding captain and an officer) has been rescued by a passing vessel. The Navy spokesperson says that the Navy has dispatched two vessels to assists. There are reports of a fire onboard the vessel.