Stena Bulk Asks to Visit Crew of Seized Tanker

The British operator of the tanker seized by Tehran, Stena Bulk, made a request on Sunday, July 21st, to visit the 23 crew members of the seized tanker Stena Impero, and is expecting a response from the Iranian government.

A statement from the tanker operator quoted President and Chief Executive of Stena Bulk, Erik Hanell, as saying: “I can confirm a formal request for permission to visit the 23 crew members of the Stena Impero has been made to the authorities at the Port of Bandar Abbas.

“The request has been acknowledged, but we await a formal response. In the meantime, we will continue to co-operate and liaise with all appropriate authorities.

Hanell added: “All of Stena Bulk and Northern Marine Management’s efforts and focus continue to be on the welfare and safe return of our crew and supporting their families during this very difficult time.

“Our local staff in India, Latvia, Philippines, Russia are in constant touch with the families and we will continue to do everything humanly possible to keep them informed and to support them in every way we can.”

Iran has seized the British tanker in the Strait of Hormuz for alleged marine violations and allowed a second one to proceed after issuing a warning.