Finnish authorities have confirmed the underwater investigation of the ruptured Estlink 2 subsea cable is nearly complete, with seabed imaging largely finalized. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)'s detective chief inspector Elina Katajamäki announced the state of affairs, indicating, "The repair work of the ruptured cables has started, and at the same time, samples are collected for forensic analysis." The investigation is part of larger criminal proceedings concerning the cables' damage.
Simultaneously, the Helsinki District Court has upheld the NBI's decision to seize the vessel Eagle S, initially taken by the Police of Finland. This development occurred after the vessel's owner requested the seizure to be lifted following the initial enforcement. Investigative measures are still being conducted aboard the tanker, with eight crew members placed under travel restrictions as part of the investigation.
The NBI has been actively cooperating with foreign authorities, including officials from the Cook Islands, where Eagle S is flagged. According to Katajamäki, this cooperation addresses specifics concerning the vessel’s details and its operations. "Cooperation with the Cook Islands has concerned details of the vessel," she confirmed.
During the seabed investigation, specific areas have been highlighted as potentially relevant for locating where the anchor may have fallen off, and those will be investigated more thoroughly as part of efforts to understand the extent of the cable damage. Katajamäki remarked, "Those areas will be investigated in more detail." The Finnish Defence Forces have provided assistance, bolstering the efforts of the Helsinki Police Department, which is leading the investigation, with the Border Guard also playing a role.
Authorities have expressed concerns over the Eagle S being involved with what has been referred to as Russia's "dark fleet," especially since its last port of call was reportedly at Ust-Luga, noted for oil transport activities. The alliance of investigative forces indicates the serious nature of the inquiry pertaining to potential criminal activities involving maritime operations.
The situation highlights not just regional tensions but also the precarious nature of maritime security and international cooperation, particularly as it relates to undersea infrastructure. With the geopolitical climate being tense, the investigation stands as an emblem of finely woven interactions between law enforcement agencies and international bodies.
Through these investigative measures, Finland’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its maritime borders is evident. Investigators are intent on discovering whether vulnerabilities may have been exploited or if any deliberate actions have led to the damage of the Estlink 2 cable, which plays a significant role in connecting energy networks within the region.
Authorities will continue their efforts to repair the cable and understand the full scope of the incidents leading up to its damage, emphasizing the preventive strategies needed moving forward. This approach aligns with safeguarding not only national infrastructure but also the broader interests of security and cooperation within the Baltic Sea region.