The Atlas-Bey: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

The remains of Captain Samad Nasrullayev, who tragically lost his life during a Russian drone assault while commanding the cargo vessel 'Atlas Bey', have been returned to his homeland. The repatriation took place on July 16, with his body arriving in the port city of Odesa. In a heartfelt statement, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry extended their condolences to Captain Nasrullayev's family and friends, wishing him eternal peace. Following the completion of necessary formalities, his body was transported to the Lankaran district. In a poignant ceremony, final tributes were paid in his birthplace of Baligchilar, where he was laid to rest in the local cemetery, honoring his memory and service.

On July 14, 2026, the cargo vessel 'Atlas Bey', carrying 12 Azerbaijani crew members and transporting a shipment of vegetable oil, fell victim to a drone attack shortly after departing from the port of Chornomorsk en route to Turkey. The assault resulted in a devastating fire on board and the reported death of the ship's captain. Following the incident, evacuation operations were swiftly launched, with 11 crew members safely brought to Odesa. Among the evacuees, three sustained injuries during the attack. Efforts are currently underway to locate the missing captain. In response, the Azerbaijani Embassy in Ukraine has established ongoing communication with local authorities to facilitate consular support for its affected citizens. Fortunately, firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze aboard 'Atlas Bey' promptly. For further details and images related to the incident, visit the following links: [Dumskaya](https://dumskaya.net/news/prikrylis-otvetkoy-radi-terrora-rossiyskaya-atak-191594/) and [Svoboda](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.svoboda.org/amp/rf-udarila-po-eschyo-dvum-sudam-v-chyornom-more-pogib-kapitan/33803665.html).

On January 21, 2025, the 'Atlas Bey' experienced its second detention in a mere three-month span while docked in Iskenderun. During the inspection, authorities cited the vessel for a total of 16 deficiencies, of which four were classified as severe—significant enough to warrant the detention. The critical issues identified included: 1. Fire Safety: Inoperative jacketed high-pressure lines and oil leakage alarm. 2. Safety of Navigation: Absence of the long-range identification and tracking system. 3. Safety of Navigation: Expired nautical publications. 4. Certificate & Documentation: Various other certificate irregularities. Following rectification of these deficiencies, the 'Atlas Bey' was released the same day and set sail for Batumi, with an estimated time of arrival (ETA) on January 29. This was not the vessel's first incident; it had previously been detained on October 14, 2024, in Bandirma for two days due to 11 deficiencies. The repeated detentions raise concerns about the ship’s compliance with safety and navigation standards within the maritime industry.