Discover the Biscay: Ratings & Maritime News

In a significant environmental breach, the tanker 'Cevdet A' was found to have discharged 429 liters of pure sodium hydroxide into the North Sea. This incident occurred between February 13 and 14, 2013, approximately 30 to 40 miles northwest of Heligoland. On February 15, 2013, at 02:15 a.m., the Water Police Stade officers conducted an onboard inspection at the port of Bützfleth/Stade as part of their efforts to ensure adherence to international environmental regulations. The investigation revealed that 'Cevdet A' had taken on part of its cargo at the Bützfleth port. However, when the consignor detected contamination from tank residues, the loading operation was halted, necessitating the temporary storage of the contaminated cargo aboard the vessel. Unfortunately, during the subsequent tank cleaning, remnants of sodium hydroxide were improperly discharged into the tidal waters of the German Bight, a substance known for its toxic effects and classified as hazardous to aquatic environments. As a consequence of these violations, the Turkish captain and the Chief Officer of the vessel were required to submit a safety deposit of 8,800 Euros to secure ongoing criminal proceedings related to this environmental infraction.