Brazil moves forward with its assertions that a “Greek flag oil tanker” was responsible for a massive oil spill that washed up on more than 1,500 miles of coastline, and ended up costing $47.7 million to clean up in 2019 and 2020.
While Brazil did not name the tanker, it said that after a two-year analysis they had enough proof to recommend that the ship and its owner, as well as the captain and chief engineer should all be indicted.
The oil began washing up on the shores of Brazil at the end of August 2019 and by November the authorities reported that they have retrieved over 2,000 tons of oily waste.
More than 4,500 tons of oil residue were collected after damaging mangroves, breeding grounds for humpback whales and other fishing areas, and coral reefs.
The Federal Police, based on the evidence and other elements of conviction produced, concluded that there was sufficient evidence that an oil tanker flying the Greek flag was responsible for the launch of the oleaginous substance that reached the Brazilian coast
the Federal Police announced.
The police, along with various national and international institutions, carried out a chemical analysis to determine the nature of the material, its characteristics, and origins. This took place, “as several theories emerged about the origin of the material.”
Other elements of their work regarded efforts to determine the exact location where the oil spill occurred. This was achieved by using with satellite images, models, and simulations. They also reviewed data and documentation to confirm the facts in the case.
The Federal Police will now send their report to the Federal Judiciary Power of Rio Grande do Norte and the Federal Public Ministry for analysis and further action.
The report suggersts prosecution for crimes of pollution, non-compliance with environmental obligations, and damages.
The initial minimum in damages is set at $47.7 million as the cost of the cleanup with the total amount of the environmental damage to be determined by the Federal Police.
