Murder hunt as man stabbed at sea

The widow of the murdered captain is being flown to the UK

Police have launched a murder hunt after the Filipino master of a tanker was stabbed to death as it passed the Devon coast on Thursday evening.

Armed police officers boarded the Overseas Josefa Camejo on Friday morning as the search for the suspected crew member resumed.

It is believed the man may have jumped overboard from the vessel, which is three miles off Berry Head.

OSG, the owner of the vessel says it was sailing to Sweden from Venezuela.

'Greatly shocked'

The ship's master was stabbed at about 1800 GMT on Thursday and, despite medical treatment, was pronounced dead on board the 100,000 tonne tanker.

The 250-metre ship was picking up a deep sea pilot at the time of the attack.

The vessel is currently anchored in waters outside Brixham.

In a statement, OSG said: "OSG is greatly shocked by this incident and would like to extend their very deepest sympathy to all the family and friends concerned."

The widow of the murdered seaman will be flown to the UK from her home in the Philippines, OSG said.

The company said an experienced ship's master had been sent to the vessel and was offering support to the 25 crew members still on board.