Korean Coast Guard Detains Russian Vessel Over Oil Spill Near Busan

The Korean Coast Guard has detained a Russian-flagged refrigerated cargo vessel after tracing it to an oil pollution incident off Busan.

 

The case began on September 24, when a diver noticed an oil slick near the city’s coastline. Responding teams quickly contained the spill and launched an investigation to find the culprit. Using drones and oil sample analysis, officers identified a 2,600-ton Russian ship as the likely source of the contamination.

 

According to officials, around 39 liters of waste oil had been discharged into the sea before the vessel fled the area. After a four-day inspection, investigators confirmed that the leak originated from a faulty intermediate valve in the ship’s engine room. Laboratory tests later matched the oil samples from the sea to those found onboard.

 

A crew member reportedly admitted to the illegal discharge during questioning. The Coast Guard is now demanding compensation from the vessel’s operator for cleanup costs, while potential additional penalties remain under review.

 

“This case highlights the persistence and professionalism of our marine pollution response team,” said a representative of the Busan Coast Guard.

 

Source: The Maritime Executive

Picture: Busan Coast Guard