Salvage response begins on grounded tanker spilling crude off Oman two months after attack

The response is being undertaken during the annual monsoon season, creating a challenging offshore environment, with adverse weather and sea conditions influencing vessel stability, safety, the pace of operations and access to the site, according to Ambrey.

“This is an extremely challenging situation, compounded by adverse weather conditions associated with the Khareef monsoon,” said Ambrey director of global response Ed Wollaston.

“However, we have deployed the leading experts in each aspect of the response and have mobilised the appropriate supporting equipment, aircraft and vessels,” he said.

“We are working around the clock to mitigate the environmental impact of the situation.”

Ambrey is supported by the Omani state, including the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, the Environment Authority and the RAFO.

International non-governmental organisation Greenpeace published satellite imagery analysis from its German chapter saying the oil spill from the Russian shadow fleet tanker Caroline Bezengi, “has accelerated and is now estimated to have spread across roughly 600 km².”

It added that “large stretches of Al Qibliyah Island’s shoreline appear to have been affected, while additional oil slicks extend far out to sea, further polluting and damaging this protected marine ecosystem.”  

The 274-m, 159,168 dwt tanker has reportedly been leaking oil since it ran aground in June, following a suspected limpet mine attack that resulted in the flooding of the engineroom.

“Urgent action is needed to contain the spill and prevent further harm to marine life and local livelihoods,” Greenpeace said.

Oman’s Ministry of Transport and Environment Authority said it was handling the incident “to mitigate any impacts on the environment,” saying “specialised technical teams are continuing to monitor developments and implement the necessary procedures in accordance with the approved emergency response plans and competencies, with the aim of reducing any impacts on the marine environment and navigational safety.”

No party has taken responsibility for attacking the vessel. Caroline Bezengi was listed on the automatic identification system as flying the Cameroon flag but was among 39 vessels de-listed from Cameroon’s ship registry in June, according to Reuters. 

The ship is subject to sanctions imposed by the European Union, Ukraine, the UK, Canada and Switzerland.