Local reports said fishermen picked up the seafarers after the 1,200-dwt San Cristobal (built 1966) capsized in heavy seas on 16 November, 25 miles off Ecuador’s Santa Elena peninsula.

The vessel had developed a list of 15 degrees before capsizing completely and going down in 10 minutes.

The ship was carrying construction materials, food and gas cylinders.

One container was recovered, while another washed up on a beach and a third was wrecked on rocks.

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