Sweden has detained a Russian bulk carrier on suspicion of polluting the sea

While patrolling the Baltic Sea, a Swedish Coast Guard aircraft spotted the bulk carrier "Hui Yuan," which, according to preliminary reports, was dumping coal waste. The Panamanian-flagged vessel had recently arrived from Russia and was heading to the Spanish port of Las Palmas. 

This was reported by the Swedish Coast Guard, noting that the incident may constitute a gross violation of the Swedish Environmental Protection Code.

The vessel was inspected off the coast of Ystad around 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 12, by the Coast Guard and the Public Prosecutor’s Office aboard the patrol vessel KBV 003. Deputy Head of Operations Daniel Stenling emphasized the coordinated efforts of Swedish agencies to protect the environment and maintain order at sea. A preliminary investigation has now been launched into the alleged violation of environmental laws.

The prosecutor has already decided to question the bulk carrier’s crew to clarify all circumstances surrounding the waste discharge. Swedish authorities continue to gather evidence as part of the criminal proceedings to determine the degree of culpability of those responsible. Official services remain in the area of the incident to complete the necessary procedural actions and monitor the environmental situation in the waters.

Earlier, Sweden detained a sanctioned tanker due to an oil spill.

The U.S. military intercepted another oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea, continuing its campaign to pressure vessels involved in oil shipments that circumvent U.S. sanctions against Venezuela.