Swedish prosecutors have charged the pilot of the Norwegian cargo ship Misje Verde for his role in a fatal collision that occurred on July 28, near Tjörn, Sweden. The incident resulted in two fatalities and sparked an expanded criminal investigation by Swedish authorities.
Investigation Details
The cargo ship was operating under compulsory pilotage when it struck a pleasure boat, effectively running over the smaller vessel in Hakefjord, southwest of Gothenburg. According to prosecutors, the collision occurred as Misje Verde overtook the 7-8 meter cabin motorboat at high speed.
The incident has led to charges against both the master and pilot of the cargo ship. The master is currently detained under a higher standard of probable cause, while the pilot faces charges on a lower standard of reasonable suspicion for negligent navigation and causing another person's death.
Operational Standards Under Scrutiny
The Swedish Prosecution Authority cited inconsistencies in the accounts provided by the ship’s master and pilot as part of their investigation. Senior Prosecutor James von Reis stated that while both parties offered largely consistent narratives regarding the division of responsibilities on the bridge, the prosecutor's office found reason to suspect the pilot also bears criminal responsibility.
Investigations revealed that despite being assigned through the Swedish Maritime Administration’s compulsory pilotage service, the pilot played an active role in navigation. This has raised questions about whether the pilot adequately supported the master or if he contributed to the accident by failing to provide adequate assistance.
The development comes just days after the foreign master of Misje Verde was detained due to concerns over his potential flight risk and interference with the investigation. The master is being held under stricter legal grounds compared to the pilot, who has not been detained as no legal basis for pretrial detention exists.
The indictment deadline has been set for August 14, after which prosecutors will decide whether to pursue formal charges against the pilot.