Trial Begins for Officers of Russian Tanker in Cable Cut Case
The trial has commenced in Helsinki for the captain and two officers of the Russian-linked oil tanker Eagle S, who face serious allegations related to a significant maritime incident. The crew is accused of dragging their anchor across the seabed, resulting in the severing of vital undersea cables between Finland and Estonia last Christmas. Finnish prosecutors assert that the vessel intentionally damaged five undersea lines, including the important Estlink 2 power cable and four internet cables, during a journey that spanned an astonishing 90 kilometers.
Charges and Defense Claims
Prosecutors in Finland are pursuing prison sentences of two-and-a-half years for the crew, citing charges of aggravated criminal mischief and telecommunications interference. They argue that the actions of the Eagle S crew demonstrated reckless negligence, which could have led to even more severe consequences. In contrast, the captain and officers have pleaded not guilty, claiming the incident was merely an accident. They attribute the anchor dragging to mechanical failures, inadequate maintenance, and adverse weather conditions, rather than any intent to sabotage.
A crucial aspect of the case is the voyage data recorder, which was offline during the incident, leaving investigators without vital evidence to clarify the circumstances. The crew also challenges the jurisdiction of Finnish authorities, as they contend the incident occurred in international waters. This legal battle not only raises questions about liability but also highlights the complexities involved in maritime operations. Finland estimates the damages from the cable severing to be around $75 million, which has severely disrupted both power and communication networks in the region.
