The oil tanker Marinera, seized by US forces in the Atlantic for allegedly violating sanctions, remains in the Moray Firth as of Friday. The vessel, originally named M/V Bella 1, was captured near Iceland on January 7 while transporting Venezuelan crude oil.
The ship has been re-flagged as Russian amid efforts to evade US authorities. It is currently under observation, with a US Coast Guard cutter and several UK tug boats stationed nearby.
Local observer Andy Walker noted that the USCGC Munro, which had been escorting the Marinera, is now in Aberdeen Harbour. Additional vessels, including an offshore supply ship and a fire fighting vessel, have also arrived on scene.
During the seizure operation, US military aircraft were spotted at Wick John O'Groats Airport in the Highlands. Scottish Government-owned airports in Benbecula and Stornoway also hosted US aircraft, including V-22 Ospreys and a reconnaissance plane.
The Bella 1 has a history of alleged sanctions violations, including transporting Iranian oil. Last month, US President Donald Trump ordered a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers heading to or from Venezuela.
