BERLIN, Oct 24 (Reuters) - Several people are missing after two freighters collided near the German North Sea island of Heligoland, the central command for maritime emergencies said on Tuesday.
The Polesie and Verity vessels collided at around 0300 GMT about 12 nautical miles (22 kilometres) southwest of Heligoland, likely causing the Verity to sink, central command said in a statement.
One person was rescued from the water and is receiving medical treatment, while several others are still missing, it added.
The rescue operation includes a rescue cruiser, police boats, a sensor aircraft and a helicopter, among other vessels.
Writing by Friederike Heine Editing by Miranda Murray and Rachel MoreOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.
Persons:
Verity, Friederike Heine, Miranda Murray, Rachel More
Organizations:
La Coruna, Thomson
Locations:
Heligoland, Bremen, Immingham, Hamburg, Spain