Working Conditions Aboard the Bitu-Atlantic

On April 10, 2020, the 'Bitu Atlantic', a tanker operating in the Gulf of Guinea, encountered a potentially threatening situation when a suspicious vessel closed in on it off the coast of Ghana. The chase lasted approximately half an hour before the unidentified boat broke off its pursuit and retreated. Notably, the 'Bitu Atlantic' maintained its speed and did not stop during the incident, continuing its journey from Agioi Theodoroi to Lome, with an estimated time of arrival set for April 11.

On the morning of March 23, 2020, a thorough inspection was conducted by officers from the Security Bureau of the Central Port Authority on the vessel 'Bitu Atlantic', which was anchored in Piraeus. This investigation has led to serious allegations against the ship's captain and first engineer, citing breaches of Article 155/29. 2001 of the National Customs Code, as well as Article 45 CC. During the inspection, authorities discovered that the fuel tanks contained 15.68 metric tons of diesel, surpassing the permissible fuel limit outlined in the ship’s documentation. As a result, both accused individuals face a substantial safety fine of €11,009,703. The 'Bitu Atlantic', which had arrived from Agio Theodoroi on March 20, is currently moored at coordinates 37° 51.72' N 023° 32.02' E as of March 25, 2020.