A Filipino died early this morning when he fell the height of four decks on board the Ravenna container ship at Malta Freeport.
The police said the accident happened at 4.45am as the crewman was carrying out some works.
An ambulance was called, but the man died on the spot.
A magisterial inquiry is under way.
Malta Freeport Terminals said the incident took place as crewmen were preparing to refuel the container ship from a bunkering vessel.
The harbour's emergency services reacted quickly but nothing could be done to save the crew member’s life.
The duty manager at the Freeport immediately summoned the emergency services and duty nurse, but the crew member was pronounced dead at the scene.
Freeport CEO Alex Montebello said: "Everyone at Malta Freeport would like to
express their deepest sympathies to the crew member’s family, friends and
colleagues at this distressing time."
He added: "Although Malta Freeport was not involved in the refuelling
operation, our duty manager was informed immediately and reacted promptly to
ensure medical services were on the scene as quickly as possible. Unfortunately,
however, nothing could be done to save the crew member’s life."