A criminal case has been opened in Murmansk following an oil spill in Kola Bay, part of the Barents Sea. The incident occurred on August 11th, resulting from an overflowing fuel tank during the loading of fuel oil onto a tanker.
Preliminary estimates indicate the damage to the water body is no less than 5 million rubles. The investigation is conducting a series of measures to establish all the circumstances of the incident, including expert examinations.
The criminal case was initiated under Part 2 of Article 252 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, which addresses violations of environmental protection rules during production activities.
The oil spill poses a significant threat to the ecosystem of Kola Bay, a vital habitat for numerous marine species. The oil that has entered the water can pollute the coastline, harm marine life, and disrupt the biological balance of the bay.
The investigation continues to work to identify those responsible for the incident.