A fire broke out on May 20, 2025, at Chevron’s Benguela Belize Lobito Tomboco (BBLT) offshore oil platform, located approximately 97 km off the coast of Cabinda, Angola. The blaze began around 3 a.m. local time in the basement of the multi-story platform, which was undergoing scheduled maintenance and had halted production on May 1.
The incident resulted in 17 injuries, including four individuals in critical condition. Additionally, one person remains missing. All injured personnel were promptly airlifted to medical facilities on land for treatment. Chevron’s subsidiary, Cabinda Gulf Oil Company (CABGOC), is collaborating with local authorities in the ongoing investigation into the fire’s cause and is actively involved in search and rescue efforts. The company is also working with its contracting partners to support the affected individuals and their families.
The BBLT platform is a 512-meter offshore compliant tower situated in the Lower Congo Basin’s ultra-deep waters. It is owned and operated by Chevron and is a significant asset in the company’s offshore operations in Angola.
Chevron has a longstanding presence in Angola, having commenced operations in the country in 1954. Over the decades, the company has played a pivotal role in the development of Angola’s energy sector, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and energy infrastructure.
As of now, Chevron has not disclosed the specific cause of the fire, and investigations are ongoing. The company has assured that all personnel have been accounted for and is prioritizing the safety and well-being of its workers. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
