On October 6, a Russian tanker reportedly capsized after the Libyan coast guard opened fire on the tanker on suspicions of smuggling contraband oil.
What happened?
The Russian tanker ‘GoEast’ was fired upon by the Libyan coast guard on the suspicions of smuggling oil.
Smuggling contraband oil:
The Russian tanker was spotted heading towards Abu Kamash and again spotted on October 5, filling oil from the pipeline situated on Abu Kamash. Abu Kamash is the site of one of the oil-rich North African country’s largest petrochemical complexes, near the Tunisian border some 170km west of Tripoli.
Fire opened after tanker failed to respond:
On October 6, the Libyan Coast guard established communication with the vessel but failed to get a response. After warning, the Coast guard officials opened fire on the vessel.
The tanker was riddled it with bullet holes and diesel oil started leaking from the bullet holes. The tanker developed heavy list and started capsizing. Details about the crew members onboard the vessel.
Warning issued for ships smuggling oil:
General Ayoub Qassem said, “The Goeast had loaded 9 000 tons of diesel and its tanks were “nearly full”. The coastguard wanted to send a clear message to traffickers, smuggling vessels and to all those who dare to touch (the resources of) the Libyan people in the future”.
Reason for smuggling:
Libya has been plagued by violence and unrest since the ouster and killing of long-time dictator Muammar Gaddafi in a NATO-backed 2011 revolution. The country has become a haven for smugglers.
Moreover, Libyan fuel prices are among the lowest in the world, tempting smugglers with the prospect of large profits.
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Source: News24
