Debi Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

In a significant development, the Indian maritime landscape witnessed the release of the bulk carrier 'Debi' following a lengthy detention of approximately 15 months. This legal entanglement stemmed from the discovery of 22 kg of cocaine aboard the vessel, along with disputes related to unpaid port fees owed at Paradip Port in Odisha. The vessel had accrued nearly one million dollars in port charges since its detention began on November 30, 2023. The Paradip Port Authority initiated an admiralty case when the shipowners refused to settle the outstanding port fees, resulting in a court order for the vessel's seizure. However, a breakthrough occurred when the owners reached an out-of-court agreement with Paradip International Port, allowing for the review and subsequent approval of their settlement by the admiralty judge. In addition to settling the port fees, the judge mandated that the owners pay the legal costs incurred by the Paradip Port Authority, totaling around $27,000. Meanwhile, the conditions aboard the 'Debi' during its prolonged detention were dire for the 21 crew members, who lost access to their electronics and struggled to maintain communication with their families. Tragically, one crew member attempted suicide by jumping from the ship, and a junior engineer required hospitalization. In December 2024, 11 crew members were allowed to disembark under the stipulation that nine replacements would come aboard. As of February 25, the 'Debi' remained stationary at its designated mooring area off Paradip, situated at coordinates 20° 13' N 086° 41' E. This case highlights the complexities and challenges faced by maritime operators in legal and operational scenarios.

In a significant development, 11 out of the 21 crew members aboard the vessel 'Debi' have been granted permission to leave the ship at Paradip Port. This follows a prolonged detention that began when authorities seized 22 kilograms of cocaine during a routine search conducted in November 2023. The ship has remained docked for over a year since its capture, with the remaining crew members set to depart as soon as their replacements arrive. The release aligns with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, which stipulate that crew members cannot stay onboard for more than 11 months without taking leave. Most of the crew, 17 in total, hail from Vietnam. Despite this positive change for some crew members, the ship itself will remain under custody. The detention took place on November 30, 2023, after the cocaine, valued at approximately ₹220 crore, was discovered at Paradip International Cargo Terminal (PICT). The Paradeep Customs Division has since prohibited any movement authorizations for the vessel, adding to the crew's ordeal by confiscating their communication devices.

On November 27, 2024, 21 crew members from the vessel 'Debi', currently held in Paradip since December 1, 2023, initiated a protest against their extended period of detention. This protest emerged after authorities discovered an astounding 22 kg of cocaine onboard, valued at approximately ₹220 crore. The crew gathered at the berth to receive supplies, halting their activities and preventing the ship from returning to the anchorage for several hours. Many crew members have reported feelings of depression due to the stress from their prolonged stay without resolution. Despite the substantial drug seizure, there have been no arrests, as the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL) in Bhubaneswar has yet to deliver its analysis report to the Kujang court. Additionally, in January, a petition filed by the Vietnamese ship owner seeking the release of the vessel was denied by the Kujang court.