Major Salvage Operation Launched for Grounded Shadow Fleet Tanker Caroline Bezengi off Oman

Salvage firm Ambrey launched a major international salvage operation on August 13 for the shadow fleet tanker Caroline Bezengi, which ran aground on Al-Qibliyyah Island in Oman's Hallaniyat Islands nature reserve on June 30 after suffering an explosion off Yemen on June 8. The vessel carries an estimated 800,000 barrels of crude oil.

Over 100 tonnes of equipment, salvage vessels, aircraft, and specialist personnel have been deployed. Specialists have boarded the vessel with RAF Oman support to begin stabilisation. Satellite analysis reviewed by Reuters estimates the resulting oil slick has spread across more than 2,000 square kilometres, with oil reaching the Omani mainland. SkyTruth CEO John Amos warned the spill could ultimately reach 40–50 million gallons if the vessel deteriorates further — potentially rivalling the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster. The vessel is uninsured. Monsoon conditions are severely hampering access.