Based on the information disseminated by the British authorities regarding the law enforcement measures taken in the English Channel regarding the oil tanker SMYRTOS (IMO 9389100), the Georgian Maritime Transport Agency has immediately begun to study the issue within the scope of its competence. The Georgian Maritime Transport Agency has released the above information.

According to the agency, according to information provided by the UK authorities, at this stage there are 24 crew members on board the ship, three of whom are Georgian citizens.

As the agency writes, based on information provided by the British authorities, all sailors are safe and their health is not in danger.

“We would like to emphasize that the current legislation of Georgia and the Agency’s regulatory acts oblige crewing companies to conduct strict sanctions checks and prohibit the employment of seafarers on ships or with shipowners that are subject to UN, EU, US or UK sanctions.

The Agency has verified the data of recognized crewing and seafarer employment companies operating in Georgia. As a result of the verification, the vessel in question was not identified in the employment, recruitment or seafarer placement records of any recognized Georgian crewing company.

Accordingly, their employment was not carried out by companies recognized by the Georgian Maritime Agency.

The Georgian Maritime Transport Agency continuously monitors recognized crewing companies and is authorized to use measures provided for by law, including suspension or withdrawal of recognition, in case of violation of sanctions-related requirements.

The Agency continues to cooperate with the relevant authorities of the United Kingdom and is closely monitoring the results of the ongoing investigation.

The safety of Georgian seafarers, protection of their labor rights and ensuring full compliance with international sanctions regimes remain our top priority.

The Georgian Maritime Transport Agency once again confirms Georgia’s commitment to compliance with international sanctions, responsible maritime governance and the principles of the rule of law,” reads the information.