Shadow Fleet Tanker Caroline Bezengi Grounds Off Oman, Spills Oil

The tanker Caroline Bezengi has become one of the largest reported environmental incidents linked to Russia's so-called shadow fleet, according to Lloyd's List as cited by RadioSvoboda. The vessel ran aground off the coast of Oman after a series of unexplained explosions while carrying approximately 800,000 barrels of Russian oil. Seven of the ship's 12 cargo tanks are reportedly damaged, and there are concerns the hull could break apart, raising the risk of further spillage. The resulting pollution has reportedly spread across more than 2,000 sq km of sea, reaching Oman's coastline and threatening protected ecosystems in the Hallaniyat Islands, an area known for its marine biodiversity. The incident has also highlighted complications arising from international sanctions on Russian oil trade. Access to the vessel's insurer funds was delayed, requiring special permission before compensation or clean-up financing could proceed. Shadow fleet vessels, often operating with opaque ownership and insurance structures, have faced increased scrutiny amid Western sanctions targeting Russian oil exports. The grounding of the Caroline Bezengi underscores growing concerns among maritime authorities and environmental groups about the risks posed by aging, under-regulated tankers used to circumvent sanctions, particularly in ecologically sensitive waters such as those surrounding Oman's protected islands.