On 31 Dec 2020, oil tanker MT POLA was conducting a ship-to-ship transfer with the MT NORDIC FREEDOM when a likely deliberately-placed Limpet Mine was discovered attached to the MT POLA’s hull. The MT POLA had been at anchor at the KAZ anchorage, and arrived in the area in the beginning of November, therefore it is unclear at this point when the device was attached. On 2 Jan 2021, the device had been successfully removed by an Iraqi Technical Team, as reported and assessed by the navies (link).
The expert group of Industry Associations including INTERCARGO have reviewed the situation and been in contact with the relevant Flag States, Regional Stakeholders, UKMTO, Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC) and developed joint industry guidance as attached for reference.
Incidents of similar nature happened in the past.
