Estonia Detains Ship Bound for Russia Over Smuggling Suspicion
Estonian authorities have detained a refrigerated containership, the Baltic Spirit, on suspicion of smuggling. The operation took place on February 3, involving multiple agencies including the Estonian Tax and Customs Board, police, and navy forces.
Details of the Operation
Late Tuesday, a specialized unit from the Tax and Customs Board, supported by the K-Commando police unit, conducted the boarding. They utilized a helicopter from the Police and Border Guard for aerial support, while naval vessels Raju and Admiral Cowen assisted on the water.
- Inspection date: February 3
- Ship name: Baltic Spirit
- Ship capacity: 5,700 pallets and 268 refrigerated containers
- Year built: 2018
- Crew: 23 (all reported to be Russian nationals)
- Current voyage: From Ecuador to St. Petersburg, Russia
Background on the Baltic Spirit
The Baltic Spirit is registered in the Bahamas and operated by Cool Carriers, a company based in Cyprus and Sweden. Although the vessel is not sanctioned by the European Union, it was en route to Russia after a stop in Estonia for fuel.
Investigation into Smuggling Allegations
The Customs Board indicated potential links between the ship’s operations and smuggling activities originating from Ecuador. Authorities have reported that over 50 personnel were involved in the initial inspection of the vessel, currently anchored near Naissaar.
Authorities stated that the search is progressing slowly due to the need to meticulously inspect a large number of containers and various areas of the ship for anything illicit.
The crew has reportedly been cooperative during this process, with no resistance encountered. The authorities have not disclosed further details, citing an ongoing investigation into the ship’s activities.
