Photo: twitter.com/WarsontheBrink
According to the Italian media outlet IVG, the explosion on the Seajewel tanker occurred under unclear circumstances. Crew members reported hearing two loud bangs, and the metal sheets of the damaged hull were concave inwards, which may indicate that explosive devices were placed directly on the vessel.
Signs of an explosion and investigation
Savona Coastguard specialists, together with divers, continue to investigate the incident, but investigators are not disclosing details.
Several factors support the version of an explosive device:
– The damage is located below the waterline, which makes it difficult to cause it by an external impact
– Massive fish kill near tanker after explosion
What is known about the tanker Seajewel
Seajewel was loaded in Russia three times in 2024 (February, March, May), after which it returned to unload.
The tanker was spotted in the Romanian port of Constanta after arriving from the Turkish port of Ceyhan. According to law enforcement officials, the vessel was to go to Novorossiysk for reloading.
Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ under threat
Russia is actively using its “shadow fleet” to transport oil in order to circumvent sanctions. According to sources, Moscow has purchased at least 230 European and American tankers worth $6 billion for this purpose.
It is not yet known whether the explosion on the Seajewel is related to international sanctions or the actions of intelligence services. There are no official comments on the matter, and the investigation is ongoing.
