Updated: Large oil slick in Birzebbuga

A large slick of what is believed to be oil was reported in St George's Bay, Birzebbuga, this morning. There was also a strong smell of diesel. Birzebbuga mayor Joseph Farrugia said he did not know what had caused the slick, adding that he was concerned that the sea may even push the film of oil onto the road, causing a traffic hazard. It is not unusual for seawater to flow onto the street, particularly close to the council's offices. The slick broke into a number of separate parts later in the day. Mr Farrugia said the slick could have come from a large ship in the bay, or from a bunkering operation.  The spill was reported to the Transport Malta and officials went on site. They lifted samples to identify the source of the slick. In a statement in the afternoon TM said the authority took the necessary steps to clean up the bay by engaging a local oil spill response contractor specialised in the handling of such incidents. The clean-up operation commenced early this afternoon and is still in progress. TM personnel remained on-site to monitor and direct operations.