Grounded Russian Tanker Leaks Oil into Oman's Marine Protected Area

A British company, Ambrey, has been hired to salvage a grounded Russian shadow fleet tanker off Oman's coast and prevent an oil spill that is threatening wildlife as it reaches the country's shoreline. The oil from the tanker Caroline Bezengi has exponentially spread over hundreds of square kilometers during stormy weather, endangering a marine protected area.

Satellite images have shown that the oil spill has reached the shores of Ras Madrakah, more than 200 kilometers north of Qabiliyah Island, where the tanker is grounded. Authorities estimate that the spill could reach over 100 kilometers further north to Masirah Island.

The marine protected area includes coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and endangered turtles, as well as breeding sites for migratory birds and the rare Arabian Sea humpback whale. Experts warn of an unprecedented environmental disaster if the vessel sinks or breaks open and leaks its entire cargo of over 800,000 barrels.