Russian Tanker Oil Spill Off Oman Coast Raises Environmental Concerns
A Russian 'shadow fleet' tanker, the Caroline Bezengi, has reportedly spilled a significant amount of oil off the coast of Oman, potentially polluting an environmentally sensitive area. The tanker, which departed from the Russian port of Novorossiysk in May, was bound for India. On June 8, while near the southern coast of Oman, the crew reported a suspected bomb attack. The vessel's AIS signal disappeared shortly after, and it has not been revived. Satellite images and video footage suggest the tanker remains near al-Qibliyyah island, with an oil slick visible in the area. The Caroline Bezengi, built in 2001 and owned by a Shanghai-based firm, is part of a 'shadow fleet' with a history of Russian trade and false flag registration. 
