German police detain cargo ship Scanlark over espionage concerns
On September 7, German police carried out a large-scale search of the cargo vessel Scanlark as it transited the Kiel Canal. The ship is suspected of possible espionage targeting Germany’s critical maritime infrastructure.
Operation details
-
The vessel was en route from Rotterdam to Finland.
-
The search was conducted by special police units from Schleswig-Holstein.
-
The operation involved both law enforcement officers and divers, with inspections continuing into the following day.
Espionage suspicions
According to German media, the investigation was triggered by suspicions that on August 26, a drone had been launched from Scanlark, possibly to photograph and monitor a German naval vessel.
During the search, police reportedly found antennas and equipment not typical for cargo ships, reinforcing suspicions of espionage activity.
Crew and vessel status
-
The crew consists mainly of Russian nationals, who have been prohibited from going ashore.
-
Both the vessel and its crew remain detained in Germany.
Background
-
Scanlark is a general cargo ship sailing under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, built in 1985.
-
Specifications: length 75.17 m, beam 10.7 m, gross tonnage 1,371 GT.
The case has attracted significant public and government attention, as Germany continues to strengthen security around its naval and energy infrastructure amid growing threats in the Baltic Sea region.
