- A tanker sustained significant damage from an explosion while offloading crude oil in Savona.
- The blast caused a large tear in the vessel but resulted in no casualties or oil spills.
- Authorities suspect an explosive device based on preliminary evidence, including inwardly bent metal plates and marine life deaths.
- Investigations are exploring a possible connection to shadow fleets allegedly involved in illicit oil transport.
An explosion occurred between midnight and 1 a.m. on February 14 during crude oil offloading operations at a mooring facility off Savona. The blast left a tear over a meter wide on one side of the tanker. Fortunately, no crew members were harmed, and no fuel leaked into the surrounding waters, preventing an environmental disaster. The vessel remains stable offshore as divers conduct inspections and authorities continue their investigation, according to Decode39.
Authorities’ Response and Initial Findings
Following the explosion, port authorities halted operations as a precaution and activated all anti-pollution and firefighting protocols. While no immediate hazards were reported, technical assessments are underway to determine the exact cause of the incident and ensure safe resumption of activities. Preliminary evidence, including structural damage patterns and an unusual number of dead fish in the area, suggests that an explosive device may have been involved.
Possible Link to Shadow Fleet Activities
Journalistic sources have pointed to a potential link between the damaged tanker and shadow fleets allegedly engaged in oil smuggling. Reports indicate that the vessel had previously made multiple stops at a Russian port before continuing to Turkey and various European destinations. An investigation by the European Anti-Fraud Prosecutor’s Office even captured photographic evidence of the vessel docking at a Romanian port, adding to the growing suspicions surrounding its activities.
Ongoing Investigations and Security Concerns
Authorities are now focused on identifying those responsible for the explosion and determining whether it was a targeted attack. The incident raises concerns about maritime security, particularly regarding vessels linked to unofficial oil trade routes. As inspections continue, officials are working to strengthen safety measures and prevent potential threats to regional shipping operations.
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Source: Decode39
