In Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, several dozen representatives of environmental organizations took to the streets to protest against the dangerous practices of shadow fleet tankers, which they often use near the territorial waters of the Republic of Cyprus.
The participants primarily have in mind the practice of oil transshipment, which is often used by shadow fleet tankers to hide the true source of oil and the route along which the cargo is transported. Two tankers approach each other and transfer oil.
This is a very dangerous procedure that threatens significant oil spills. Environmentalists emphasize the technical condition of the ships, which are most often older than 20 years. They cite research data that shows an increase in the number of oil spills in the waters of Cyprus.
The activists demand tighter control over the movement of tankers and the technical condition of the ships. In case of violations, it is necessary to arrest vessels directly on the high seas.
