Sanctioned Russian Tanker Released After Seven-Month Detention in Sweden
Swedish authorities have cleared the sanctioned tanker Sea Owl 1 to leave the country after nearly seven months at anchor, following confirmation that the vessel is now legitimately registered under the flag of Equatorial Guinea.
The Swedish Transport Agency announced Monday that it had lifted an operating ban imposed on the tanker in March over irregularities involving its flag registration and documentation. The vessel has remained anchored off Trelleborg, on Sweden’s southern coast, since authorities boarded it on March 12 amid concerns over its seaworthiness and registration status.
Vessel’s Prolonged Detention Highlights Challenges in Verifying Ship Registration
The Sea Owl 1 remains on the European Union’s sanctions list over its involvement in Russia’s oil trade. According to Swedish authorities, the tanker has transported petroleum products between Russia and Brazil in recent years. The prolonged detention of the vessel highlights the difficulties authorities face in verifying the registration and documentation of ships operating within Russia’s shadow fleet.
Coast Guard Emphasizes Importance of Safety and Compliance
The Coast Guard emphasized that the vessel is not suspected of sanctions violations. Two of its captains were previously investigated for suspected offenses, including the use of false documents, but all investigations have since been closed. The decision to release the vessel does not remove its EU sanctions designation.
Enforcement Measures in Place Against Other Vessels
Swedish authorities have stepped up enforcement against vessels operating with questionable registration and safety documentation. The Coast Guard confirmed that two other vessels remain subject to enforcement measures: Caffa, which was seized in March and remains in Trelleborg, and Jin Hui, which has been prohibited from operating since May.
Operating Ban Lifted, Vessel Free to Depart
With the operating ban lifted, Swedish authorities say there are no longer any restrictions imposed by the Swedish Transport Agency preventing Sea Owl 1 from departing. The vessel’s departure marks a significant milestone in Sweden’s efforts to crack down on vessels operating with questionable registration and safety documentation.
Original Article: Sweden Releases Sanctioned Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker After Seven-Month Detention — Gcaptain