Stena Bulk Demands Access to Seized Stena Impero
Image Courtesy: Stena BulkStena Bulk, the owner of the seized tanker Stena Impero, has demanded access to the vessel in order to conduct a full assessment.
The company, and the vessel manager, the UK-based Northern Marine Management, said that they consider “it imperative” to be granted access to the tanker, that remains at anchor in Bandar Abbas.
The move comes on the back of a letter from Iranian authorities to the United Nations Security Council outlining alleged violations of international rules and regulations, including an unconfirmed collision.
“We continue to await a response from Iranian authorities to our request,” Stena Bulk said.
India, Russia and Philippines Embassy officials earlier attended the Stena Impero and have met with crew members from their respective countries.
“Feedback from the officials is that the crew are in good health and they appreciated the interaction with their government representatives,” the ship owner informed.
The 46,575 cbm Stena Impero was seized by Iran in what is perceived as a retaliatory measure after the UK detained a 300,000 dwt Iranian tanker on suspicion it was carrying a shipment of crude oil to Syria.
Following the Stena Impero seizure, the UK urged British-flagged ships to avoid the Strait of Hormuz.
