The background for the severe difficulties currently faced by the HEROIC IDUN crew in Equatorial Guinea is outlined in the following statement issued by the vessel’s managers, OSM, Norway. A further statement has been issued by the vessel's owners, Idun Management Limited.
Gard is deeply concerned about the health, safety and wellbeing of the crew given the prolonged detention and harsh treatment they have been exposed to. In addition, the crew are now facing a possible rendition to Nigeria, where they will likely face further lengthy investigations exposing them to additional risks.
Gard CEO Rolf Thore Roppestad said:
“The treatment received by the crew shows a blatant disregard for basic human rights and international law. They have been held for more than 80 days, without any charges and without any legal representation locally to protect their interests. The situation is quite frankly outrageous.”
Many of the crew members have suffered from malaria, typhoid fever and other illness requiring hospitalization.
“Our combined Defence, P&I and H&M team are working closely with the owners, managers, appointed lawyers, The Norwegian War Risk Association, and other stakeholders to help resolve what is clearly a very volatile and difficult situation. This case deserves attention at the highest levels in our industry. Proper and fair treatment of crew is paramount, and the international Law of the Sea must be respected and complied with», said Roppestad.
The International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) has publicized that the flag State, Marshall Islands, recently filed an application to it for the prompt release of the crew and vessel.
The HEROIC IDUN is covered by Gard for P&I, H&M, IV, Loss of Hire and Defence.
For questions, please contact gard@luther.co.uk
