Liberian-Flagged Vessel Detained for Suspected Pollution
Image Courtesy: ShipspottingA Liberian-flagged cargo vessel, owned by Germany-based dry bulk operator MST Mineralien Schiffahrt, is being held in Duluth, Minnesota, for alleged violations of U.S. law related to the discharge of oily water.
Based upon current information in the investigation, it does not appear that the 2000-built vessel Cornelia discharged the water within the port of Duluth - Superior.
The U.S. Coast Guard is investigating the 24,516 dwt vessel, which has been anchored in port since November 4. The investigation covers the vessel’s crew, equipment, as well as its records.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota accepted the case for criminal investigation on November 9.
The Coast Guard said it is in talks with MST Mineralien Schiffahrt regarding a security agreement that would permit the vessel to depart the port while simultaneously protecting the integrity of the investigation and the interests of the vessel’s crew members.
MST Mineralien Schiffahrt operates a fleet of 40 dry bulk vessels ranging from 21,000 to 75,610 dwt. MST also operates three combination vessels for dry and liquid products with a total carrying capacity of approximately 82,949 dwt.
Image: Shipspotting
