- Finnish authorities uncovered sabotage attempts on key undersea cables and pipelines in the Baltic Sea.
- Investigations focus on crew members from a seized oil tanker, now considered suspects in the operation.
- Other Baltic nations are on high alert following similar incidents.
In December 2024, Finnish authorities intercepted an oil tanker involved in a series of attacks on undersea cables and pipelines in the Baltic Sea. This discovery has raised alarm among Baltic Sea nations, as incidents targeting vital infrastructure, like power lines and communication cables, continue to emerge. The investigation into the crew and their activities has intensified, with several suspects now under travel restrictions as authorities probe further, reports Reuters.
Sabotage Attempts on Critical Infrastructure
Finnish authorities have revealed that a seized oil tanker was involved in damaging an undersea power line and telecom cables in the Baltic Sea.
The crew was preparing to target additional infrastructure. It includes a power cable and a gas pipeline, when the vessel was intercepted in December. The investigation is focused on preventing further threats to critical underwater systems in the region.
Escalating Tensions and Regional Security Concerns
The series of attacks on key cables and pipelines has sparked heightened concern across the Baltic Sea region, especially since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
With power lines and gas connections at risk, NATO nations bordering the Baltic Sea are meeting to strategize a unified response. This is to secure their critical infrastructure and ensure the region’s safety.
Investigation and Crew Members Under Suspicion
Finnish authorities have identified several crew members of the oil tanker as suspects in the sabotage attempts. Nine individuals are now under travel restrictions, including the ship’s captain and crew members from different countries.
Investigators are focusing on the crew responsible for navigating the vessel and operating the anchors. They are the tools used in the attacks.
Related Incidents and Growing Concerns
Authorities have also linked other incidents to the same pattern of anchor-dragging attacks. It includes an event involving a bulk carrier suspected of breaching undersea communications cables.
These developments underscore the growing risks to Baltic Sea nations’ underwater infrastructure. They prompt urgent measures to protect vital resources.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Reuters
