Aqualis Offshore AS, a Norwegian subsidiary, has received a penalty charge notice of NOK 1.6 million from \u00d8kokrim public prosecutors\u2019 office regarding an alleged violation in 2017 of the Norwegian pollution control act concerning transportation of waste for recycling across national borders, specifically related to the vessel Tide Carrier. Aqualis Offshore contests the charges. \u00d8kokrim has also advised that it will raise the fine to NOK 2.0 million if Aqualis Offshore rejects the fine and the case is brought to court. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The penalty charge relates to a marine warranty survey conducted by Aqualis Offshore in 2017 on the vessel Tide Carrier in Kvinnherad, Norway. Prior to its departure, whilst crew were reportedly undertaking some anciliary equipment overhauls, the vessel dragged its anchor during the onset of a storm and was subsequently towed to Gismarvik quay where it was placed under arrest. After investigation, \u00d8kokrim charged and fined the vessel\u2019s commercial manager for attempting to illegally export hazardous waste to Pakistan. In issuing the penalty charge notice to Aqualis Offshore, \u00d8kokrim claims that Aqualis Offshore aided this attempt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Aqualis Offshore strongly opposes \u00d8kokrim\u2019s assessment of its role in the case. As an independent technical surveyor, Aqualis Offshore is not involved with decisions about where shipowners trade their vessels nor is responsible for ensuring shipowners comply with their legal obligations. With this penalty charge notice, \u00d8kokrim attempts to hold Aqualis Offshore legally accountable for destination decisions and processes that are outside the company\u2019s influence and control. <\/p>\n\n\n\n