Denmark is increasing inspections of oil tankers anchored off Skagen to ensure they follow safety rules, protect the environment, and maintain good conditions for sailors. The Danish Maritime Authority announced this move on February 5 in response to growing concerns about old ships transporting oil through the Danish Straits.
Authorities are focusing on older vessels, many of which are linked to Russia’s so-called "shadow fleet." This fleet, made up of over 1,000 ships, operates in ways that raise safety and environmental risks.
Many of these vessels turn off their tracking systems and transfer oil between ships at sea to hide their movements.
The Danish Maritime Authority will check tankers that do not qualify for "innocent passage" and are anchored at Skagen Roads. These inspections are part of Denmark’s wider effort to ensure high standards in global shipping, emphasizing safety, health, and cleaner seas.
Oil tankers are being given special attention due to the potential dangers they pose, such as oil spills or accidents.
The "shadow fleet" ships are often used to transport Russian oil, sometimes in violation of international sanctions. Their activities raise serious concerns about environmental pollution and maritime safety. Denmark, along with neighboring countries like the UK, Sweden, and Finland, is working together to carry out regular inspections of these vessels to check if they have proper insurance for oil spills.
Denmark is also looking into legal options to limit the passage of these risky ships through its waters. However, international laws, such as the 1857 Copenhagen Convention, require Denmark to allow ships to pass through its straits unless they pose a direct threat.
