Finland Releases Oil Tanker Linked to Undersea Cable Sabotage Investigation

Finnish authorities have released the Eagle S, an oil tanker detained over suspicions of sabotaging undersea cables. While the ship has been freed, a criminal investigation is ongoing, with several crew members suspected of serious charges.

The Finnish authorities announced on Sunday that the oil tanker Eagle S, seized two months ago on suspicions of being linked to the cutting of critical undersea cables, has been released. Despite its release, the investigation into the vessel continues. Previously, the ship was suspected of belonging to a clandestine fleet associated with Russia, raising alarms about potential sabotage efforts against European infrastructure.

According to Finland's police, recent developments in the criminal inquiry have led to the decision to allow the Eagle S to leave the country's waters. The border officials escorted the ship to ensure a smooth departure. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, in an interview with Yle, confirmed that the investigation remains a priority, indicating that authorities are still processing evidence obtained through an onboard examination and will continue interviewing the crew members.

Out of the eight crew members suspected of various offenses, including aggravated criminal mischief and interference with communications, five were permitted to leave Finland last week, while three remain under legal restrictions. Authorities anticipate wrapping up their investigation by the end of April.

The controversy surrounding the cable cuts in the Baltic Sea coincides with escalating military tensions in the region, prompting NATO to bolster security measures. This situation follows a series of undersea cable incidents, including a separate seizure by Swedish authorities in January. The Eagle S, which had been sailing from St. Petersburg to Port Said, is flagged in the Cook Islands, underscoring concerns that Moscow’s identified shadow fleet might be utilized for disruptive activities amid ongoing Western sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin has rejected allegations of involvement and criticized the seizure of the Eagle S.