Captain faces trial for negligence after collision with oil tanker

On March 10, 2025, a collision occurred between a container ship named Solong and an anchored US oil tanker, Stena Immaculate, off the East Yorkshire coast. The incident resulted in the activation of crucial safety mechanisms due to heroic efforts from Stena Immaculate’s crew. During this unfortunate event, rescuers saved 36 crew members from both vessels; however, one sailor, Mark Angelo Pernia, remains missing and is presumed dead. The Solong, a Portuguese vessel, was towed to the Port of Aberdeen for safe berthing over two weeks later for further evaluation by marine experts. The Solong continued to burn for a week after the collision, leading to concerns about environmental pollution, as thousands of plastic pellets referred to as nurdles were also released from its damaged containers. Conservationists raised alarms about the potential harm these pellets could cause to marine life if ingested. In response, local authorities, supported by HM Coastguard, began cleanup efforts along the Norfolk coast, focusing on affected beaches. The nurdle situation underscores the environmental impact such maritime incidents can have. The Russian captain of Solong, Vladimir Motin, aged 59, has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter due to the collision and is expected to stand trial in January 2026. The legal proceedings are anticipated to draw attention given the tragic loss of life and the severe implications for maritime safety. The incident has raised questions surrounding the navigational practices and the responsibilities involved in coastguard operations and international shipping laws. As salvage operations continued for the Stena Immaculate, which remained stable, the focus shifted to addressing the environmental fallout and ensuring maritime safety in future operations. The response from authorities emphasizes a balanced approach to salvage and environmental protection, aiming to mitigate further damage while investigating the accident thoroughly. Immediate remediation efforts by HM Coastguard illustrated the urgency in restoring coastal ecosystems affected by the nurdles released from Solong.