Ambrey joins in Caroline Bezengi salvage operations

International maritime risk and response company Ambrey confirms that it has been engaged in the salvage of the stricken tanker Caroline Bezengi, located off the Omani coast in the vicinity of the Hallaniyat Islands.

The tanker, carrying a cargo of Russian oil, has been disabled off the coast of Oman since June 8, when the ship’s crew reported a suspected explosion, as yet unconfirmed or explained, and ran aground.

Omani authorities said earlier this week that a spill measuring nearly 400 sq km was centred around the Hallaniyat archipelago, home to a marine reserve to preserve the habitats of sea turtles and other aquatic life, and threatened the country’s main coast.

Ambrey says it has been mobilised as part of a significant international response including salvage vessels, aircraft and an experienced team of specialist personnel with over 100 tons of equipment. Salvage vessels to support the operation are en route and will be on scene shortly. Specialist personnel have already boarded the vessel with the support of the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) to assess conditions onboard and commence cargo and vessel stabilisation.

Ed Wollaston, Director of Global Response at Ambrey, commented: “This is an extremely challenging situation, compounded by adverse weather conditions associated with the Khareef monsoon. However, we have deployed the leading experts in each aspect of the response and have mobilised the appropriate supporting equipment, aircraft and vessels. We are working around the clock to mitigate the environmental impact of the situation.”