MS Sinfra

The MS Sinfra was a French merchant ship built in 1929. She was initially named Santa Rita and later renamed Sinfra. The ship served various purposes, including transporting passengers and cargo, primarily operating between France and South America.

During World War II, the Sinfra was requisitioned by the German military and used as a transport vessel. In October 1944, while sailing from Toulon to Marseille carrying Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and forced laborers, she was attacked and sunk by Allied aircraft. The attack occurred in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Toulon.

The sinking of the Sinfra resulted in a significant loss of life, with estimates ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 casualties. The precise number is difficult to ascertain due to incomplete records and the chaotic circumstances surrounding the ship's demise. Many of those on board were POWs from various Allied nations, as well as French civilians being forcibly transported.

The sinking of the Sinfra remains a tragic event in the history of World War II and is often cited as an example of the devastating consequences of war on civilian populations and prisoners of war. The event is commemorated in various forms, and research continues to attempt to clarify the details surrounding the incident and the identities of those who perished.