In relation to the unfounded and inaccurate allegation posted in the media that M/T MINERVA HELEN (IMO No 9276561, Greek Flag) is related with the recent oil pollution incident along the coast of Israel, MINERVA MARINE INC, as managers of the vessel, states the following:
From 04 February 2021 until 11 February 2021 the vessel was drifting offshore Port Said, Egypt, awaiting voyage orders in empty condition, without any cargo on board. Drifting while awaiting orders is a routine practice for commercial vessels.
On 11 February 2021 at about 09:00 local time the vessel moved to the Port Said Anchorage, where she arrived in the afternoon remaining without any cargo on board.
On 13 February 2021 the vessel departed from Port Said and on the 14th of February arrived in Sidi Kerir port, Egypt where she loaded her cargo.
On the 15th of February 2021 the vessel sailed directly to Cartagena Spain.
During the period that the vessel was drifting offshore Port Said awaiting her next employment, the vessel was not involved in any operation nor in any other activity that could be connected to an oil discharge at sea.
The vessel is classed with the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). Minerva Helen is well maintained without any structural or other defects that could cause an oil pollution incident.
It should be noted that on the 22nd of February 2021 the vessel was inspected by the Spanish Port State Control Authorities in Cartagena and was determined to be without any deficiencies or observations, and confirmed that the vessel was in a satisfactory maintenance and operational condition without any defect.
MINERVA MARINE Inc. will cooperate with any relevant authority in relation to the above.
