Authorities are investigating the recent damage to several underwater cables connecting Finland and Estonia, following incidents linked to the tanker Eagle S.
According to reports from yle, the damages, which occurred on December 25 and 26, 2024, affected the Estlink 2 electricity cable as well as four telecommunications cables operated by Elisa Eesti AS and CITIC Telecom. Police suspect the Eagle S, identified as part of Russia's shadow fleet, may have caused the damage by dragging its anchor across the seabed.
The Estlink 2 power cable was cut on December 25 at 12:26 PM, prompting immediate investigations to determine the cause. Spokespeople from Elisa Eesti AS indicated, "The weather conditions affected the completion timelines" for repairs. Despite the damages, they reassured both consumers and businesses involved, claiming no disruption to telecommunications services between the two countries has taken place.
Police investigations are focusing on the Eagle S, which was detained by Finnish customs near Porvoo. They suspect the twelve crew members may be responsible for severe property damage and telecommunication disruptions. The vessel, flagged under the Cook Islands, allegedly forms part of Russia's clandestine shipping operations, circumventing Western sanctions through the transport of crude oil and other resources.
This incident has also attracted international attention, leading to the deployment of the Swedish navy’s vessel, Belos, which specializes in underwater examinations and rescue operations. Captain Tuomas Runola noted the ship is equipped with state-of-the-art technology necessary for deep-sea investigations, remarking, "Belos has a wide range of equipment for underwater rescue missions and research," emphasizing the vessel's capabilities.
The Eagle S remains anchored at Kilpilahti port, under detention until the completion of investigations. Finnish authorities are taking additional steps to assess the extent of the damages reported. The original cargo on Eagle S, which includes crude oil, was taken by customs, enhancing the companies’ chances for compensation should the investigation establish culpability.
According to Finnish customs officials, there are urgent discussions surrounding the potential for financial reparations for all companies directly implicated, hoping the conclusions drawn from this investigation will lead to effective remedies.
This is not the first time such disruptions have occurred. Previous incidents involving the shadow fleet only add to the concerns of European nations about their undersea infrastructure and its protection against unauthorized vessels. The repercussions of this incident could have long-lasting effects not only on shipping regulations but also on international economic relations within the Baltic region and beyond.
Authorities are now calling for heightened awareness about maritime safety and responsible shipping practices, underscoring the need for reliable methods to monitor the actions of vessels operating under unclear affiliations, especially those considered parts of illicit fleets. The discussion around the shadow fleet's operations raises pressing questions about accountability and regulatory oversight.
Whether proactive measures can be implemented to prevent such incidents remains to be seen, but the emphasis on collaboration among maritime nations will undoubtedly grow stronger as investigations progress. The outcome of this incident could set important precedents as authorities seek to establish clearer maritime protocols.
Finland and Estonia's proactive measures and the swift action of authorities may play pivotal roles not only in addressing the current crisis but also in shaping future policies to safeguard undersea infrastructure from unregulated maritime activities.