Oil spill off the coast of Oman: tanker continues to leak after explosions

A serious oil spill has occurred off the southern coast of Oman. The tanker, named Caroline Bezengi, has been stranded for weeks and is leaking crude oil. It is estimated that the vessel is carrying at least 800,000 barrels of oil. The situation appears critical as satellite images show the ship sinking further under water, according to the AP news agency.

The incident involving the Caroline Bezengi began in early June when the ship was struck by one or more explosions. These explosions ultimately caused the tanker to run aground. European countries consider the ship and its crew part of a so-called Russian shadow fleet that seeks to evade Western sanctions.

The leakage of crude oil into the sea seems to have significantly increased since the incidents. The exact amount of oil that has leaked so far is unknown, but the situation is characterized as concerning. It remains unclear what impact this will have on the marine environment in the area.

The Caroline Bezengi is significant in the context of sanctions against Russia, which were imposed due to the war in Ukraine. This is not the first time tankers from this shadow fleet have come under scrutiny due to their role in the international oil wholesale trade.

Experts are urging further action to address the oil spill and mitigate environmental damage. Developments related to the tanker will be closely monitored in the coming period as the situation may continue to worsen.