Nigeria will release the Swiss-flagged San Padre Pio tanker, that has been seized since 2018 while transferring diesel between ships.
More specifically, the tanker was seized as it was accused of entering Nigerian waters illegally, in addition to illegal diesel trafficking, something that was denied by the captain.
After the capture of the ship, Switzerland started legal proceedings in order to get the ship freed. The agreement came after “considerable diplomatic efforts” by the foreign ministry, along with the economics ministry and the finance ministry.
Once the vessel leaves Nigeria’s exclusive economic zone, the legal proceeding can be terminated.
In addition, the Swiss foreign ministry explained that:
It is now incumbent on Nigeria to release the vessel and on the companies involved in operating the San Padre Pio to take the necessary operational measures for the actual departure of the vessel
