A Swiss-controlled bulker has suffered hull damage after hitting rocks off the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in North Africa.

The EFE news agency reported that the incident involving the 57,000-dwt Sam Lion (built 2012) took place on Tuesday.

There has been damage to the flat bottom of the vessel, which is being patched up.

Ceuta harbourmaster Jesus Fernandez Lera was cited as saying the vessel is safe and stable.