POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsWPLG Local 10August 14, 2026Miami-Dade

British firm begins salvage of grounded tanker Caroline Bezengi off Oman coast

A UK-based maritime response company has been hired to stabilize the grounded Russian shadow fleet tanker Caroline Bezengi and contain an oil spill that has reached the Omani shoreline. The vessel, which carries an estimated 800,000 barrels of oil, has been leaking since an explosion in early June, threatening a marine protected area during the monsoon season.

oil spillenvironmental disastermaritime salvageOmanshadow fleetmarine conservation
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10

Why It Matters

The spill threatens critical marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and endangered species, and has already contaminated over 200 kilometers of coastline, with potential for further spread.

Key Facts

  • The Caroline Bezengi tanker is grounded off Qabiliyah Island, Oman, following an explosion in early June.
  • The vessel is estimated to carry over 800,000 barrels of oil.
  • The oil spill has reached the shores of Ras Madrakah, 200 kilometers north of the grounding site.
  • Authorities estimate the spill could reach an additional 100 kilometers north to Masirah Island.
  • The vessel is 247 meters (899 feet) long.
  • The tanker is part of a 'shadow fleet' sanctioned by the UK and EU for carrying Russian oil.
  • The vessel is unflagged and its insurance status is unclear.
  • The salvage operation is complicated by the 'Khareef' monsoon season, which peaks in July and August.
  • The affected area is a marine protected zone containing coral reefs, seagrass, and endangered species.

Who's Mentioned

personEd Wollaston“Ambrey global response director”otherCaroline Bezengi“Grounded tanker vessel”organizationOman Environment Authority“Government body monitoring the spill”organizationGreenpeace“Environmental advocacy group”personHanen Keskes“Greenpeace campaigner”organizationAmbrey“UK-based maritime risk and response company hired for salvage”