The Cameroon-flagged Caroline Bezengi (IMO 9224439), a Russian dark fleet Suezmax tanker, has been grounded on rocks off Jazirat Al Qibliyyah in southwestern Oman since June. According to The Maritime Executive and SeaNews Türkiye, the tanker sustained an explosion on June 8 while transiting near the coast of Oman after completing its passage through the Suez Canal on May 30. The crew was safely evacuated four days later, but the vessel subsequently ran aground due to strong winds and waves from the Khareef monsoon.
The oil discharge has been ongoing, with satellite images showing a spreading slick covering approximately 800 square kilometers (309 square miles) as of August 7. The spill extends northeast toward the Arabian Sea reserve, which is home to endangered wildlife including petrels and Arabian Sea humpback whales. According to environmental experts at PAX and Greenpeace Germany, the oil sheen has been expanding in recent weeks, increasing concerns about potential ecological damage.
The tanker was loaded with crude oil from Novorossiysk, Russia, destined for Gujarat, India. However, it is currently under sanctions by Britain, the European Union, Canada, and Switzerland due to its suspected involvement in Russian oil exports through the shadow fleet. Satellite images also show that the vessel has not broken apart yet but may tilt further into the rocks, presenting ongoing risks.
Salvage operations have been challenging due to the location and structural condition of the ship. The Omani Environment Authority is working on strategies to mitigate the environmental impact while international organizations closely monitor the situation.
Risk for Ship Operators
The persistence of this oil spill poses significant risks to nearby shipping routes, particularly those navigating through the Hallaniyat Islands and the broader Arabian Sea. Ship operators are advised to stay updated on marine traffic and advisories from local authorities to avoid areas with increased pollution or operational restrictions.