The Maritime Transport Agency [MTA] of Georgia releases a statement regarding the oil tanker SMYRTOS.

"Following reports regarding law enforcement actions taken by the British authorities in relation to the oil tanker SMYRTOS (IMO 9389100) in the English Channel, the MTA of Georgia immediately commenced an examination of the matter within the scope of its competence.

According to information provided by the authorities of the United Kingdom, it has been confirmed at this stage that there are 24 crew members on board the vessel, three of whom are citizens of Georgia.

The British authorities have stated that all seafarers are safe and that there is no threat to their health or well-being.

We would like to emphasise that the legislation currently in force in Georgia, as well as the Agency’s regulatory instruments, require crewing companies to conduct stringent sanctions screening and prohibit the employment of seafarers on vessels or with shipowners that are subject to sanctions imposed by the United Nations, the European Union, the United States of America, or the United Kingdom.

The Agency has reviewed the records of operating and recognised crewing and seafarer recruitment companies in Georgia. As a result of this verification process, the vessel in question was not identified in the employment, recruitment, or seafarer placement records of any recognised Georgian crewing company.

Accordingly, the employment of the seafarers concerned was not facilitated by companies recognised by the MTA of Georgia. The Agency continuously monitors recognised crewing companies and is authorised to apply measures provided for by law, including the suspension or revocation of recognition, in cases of non-compliance with sanctions-related requirements. The Agency continues to cooperate with the relevant authorities of the United Kingdom and is closely monitoring the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

The safety of Georgian seafarers, the protection of their labour rights, and ensuring full compliance with international sanctions regimes remain our highest priorities. The MTA of Georgia once again reaffirms Georgia`s commitment to the implementation of international sanctions, responsible maritime governance, and the principles of the rule of law", - reads the statement.