By Abbas Nazil
Swedish prosecutors have filed charges against two crewmembers of a shadow fleet tanker following an oil pollution incident in Sweden’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
The tanker, known for operating under multiple names and flags, has been sanctioned by the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other authorities due to its involvement in the Russian energy sector.
Authorities identified the vessel while it was en route from Russia, claiming to be headed for Brazil, after reports of an eight-mile-long oil slick in the Swedish EEZ prompted intervention by the Swedish Coast Guard.
The tanker was ordered to anchor off Ystad, Sweden, where it was boarded by officials for inspection.
The Coast Guard discovered several irregularities during the initial examination, raising questions about the ship’s seaworthiness and the legitimacy of its flag registry.
Built in 2005, the product tanker claims registration in Sierra Leone, a detail under verification by Swedish authorities.
The vessel carries 24 crew members of various Asian nationalities, and ownership records indicate the ship is linked to Chinese interests based in Hong Kong.
Authorities planned to conduct a full search of the vessel and interview the crew to gather additional evidence.
International treaties limited the prosecution’s authority regarding the oil spill because it occurred in the EEZ rather than Swedish territorial waters, yet two crew members have been charged under Sweden’s Act on Measures to Combat Pollution from Ships.
These individuals are not under arrest and continue to remain free pending further investigation.
The Coast Guard confirmed that the tanker will remain detained as long as there is a legal basis to do so, ensuring ongoing monitoring of compliance and safety.
Sweden is also detaining two other ships linked to Russia under the Swedish Transport Agency due to deficiencies found during inspections, with captains arrested on allegations of providing false information.
Authorities have emphasized that proof of valid flag registration and insurance will be required before these vessels can resume navigation, underscoring Sweden’s commitment to enforcing maritime and environmental regulations.
The investigation continues, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of shadow fleet tankers and the broader challenges of regulating international shipping while preventing environmental damage in sensitive marine zones.
