Bangladesh Coast Guard Seizes Vessels for Illegal Fuel Transfer

The Bangladesh Coast Guard has intercepted and seized a chemical tanker, Dolphin 19, along with a Bangladeshi vessel, OT Union, for conducting an unauthorized fuel transfer and evading customs regulations.

The incident took place on February 1st, when coast guard personnel discovered the two vessels engaged in an illicit fuel transfer. The fuel was being transferred from OT Union to Dolphin 19 without the necessary permits.

Following the discovery, the crews of both vessels were questioned. Since they failed to present documentation proving the legality of the transaction, authorities confiscated Dolphin 19 and relocated it to Chittagong Outer Anchorage. Meanwhile, the OT Union and its nine crew members remain in the custody of the coast guard.

According to officials, the 11,628 gross-ton Dolphin 19 illegally received approximately 356 metric tonnes of fuel from OT Union between 7:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

Authorities confirmed that the transfer took place without clearance from the Chittagong Port Authority and Customs, making it a violation of maritime regulations. Legal action against those involved is currently in progress.