Finnish Court Upholds Detention of Russian Oil Tanker in Baltic Probe

A Finnish court denied the release of the Eagle S oil tanker, suspected of damaging undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. The tanker, linked to Caravella LLC, remains seized amidst ongoing investigations. The case highlights regional tensions and security concerns following power line and telecommunications cable disruptions.

In a significant judiciary decision, a Finnish court on Friday refused to release an oil tanker suspected of causing damage to critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. The Eagle S tanker, which Finland seized in December for allegedly dragging its anchor, remains detained as investigations continue.

Representatives from Caravella LLC, the tanker's owner, sought its release, but Helsinki District Court Judge Tatu Koistinen dismissed their claim, upholding the vessel's detention. This incident has heightened alertness among Baltic Sea nations, already tense due to similar disruptions since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Finnish authorities suspect the Eagle S is part of a 'shadow fleet' circumventing sanctions on Russian oil, adding to geopolitical complexities in the region. The vessel's crew, composed of Georgian and Indian nationals, are currently under investigation as evidence is gathered near Porvoo, Finland.

(With inputs from agencies.)