Investigation Related to Vessel Fitburg Continues

The police have continued the investigation into the incident in the Gulf of Finland in cooperation with other authorities. 

The vessel Fitburg, suspected of being involved in the cable damage incident in the Gulf of Finland, was escorted by authorities to Kantvik harbour on 31 December at approximately 17:00. 

Responsibility for the criminal investigation has been transferred to the National Bureau of Investigation, and at this stage, the incident is being investigated on suspicion of aggravated criminal damage, attempted aggravated criminal damage, and aggravated interference with telecommunications. 

– Investigative actions have been carried out on the vessel, including the collection of material, and analysis has begun. The examination of the anchor on the ship has also started, and any potential damages are being investigated. Crew member questioning was initiated immediately on Wednesday evening, and formal interviews will begin today, Thursday, says the Tactical Leader, Senior Detective Inspector Risto Lohi of the National Bureau of Investigation.

The police have arrested two individuals and two other persons have been subjected to a travel ban. At this stage of the investigation, it is not possible to provide further details regarding their nationalities or their ranks. 

The police continue to take necessary investigative measures on board the vessel. The investigative actions on the vessel have proceeded smoothly in close cooperation with the crew on board.

The authorities have also initiated a subsea crime scene investigation in the area surrounding the damaged cable. The Border Guard and the Defence Forces are providing support to the police investigation.

No-Fly Zone Is in Place in the Area

A temporary no-fly zone has been put in place over Kantvik harbour. The current no-fly zones should always be checked on the website www.Flyk.com. 

The authorities have temporarily restricted access to the area for outsiders in order to secure the enforcement of official measures, until the necessary actions have been completed. 

Port State Control Inspection of the Vessel by Traficom Underway

The Port State Control inspection of the vessel, initiated by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom on Wednesday, is continuing today, Thursday. The inspection will ensure that the vessel meets the requirements of the relevant international conventions.

– The vessel's inspection is being carried out in accordance with the requirements of the police investigation, and the inspection has progressed in good cooperation with the crew. We are satisfied with the progress of the inspection, says Sanna Sonninen, Director of Maritime Affairs at Traficom.

Traficom will provide information on the results of the inspection later, once the inspection has been completed.