Swedish authorities have boarded the Maltese-flagged cargo ship Vezhen, suspected of damaging an undersea fibre optic cable between Latvia and Sweden. The incident, which occurred early Sunday in Sweden’s exclusive economic zone, has prompted a sabotage investigation and heightened regional security measures.
Swedish Security Services confirmed on Monday that investigators have conducted onboard inspections.
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“We can confirm that persons from Swedish authorities have been on board the vessel to carry out investigative measures,” spokesperson Johan Wikstrom stated, declining to comment further.
The Vezhen, owned by Bulgarian shipping company Navigation Maritime Bulgare, was escorted by the Swedish Coast Guard to waters near Karlskrona, where it remains anchored. Images from Swedish TV4 show a damaged anchor on the vessel, which experts believe could have contributed to the cable breach.
Bulgarian authorities denied any sabotage, suggesting the damage could have occurred unintentionally. “The anchor may have dropped due to strong winds and rough seas,” said Alexander Kalchev, CEO of Navigation Maritime Bulgare. He added, “The vessel could have caused the damage but was not involved in sabotage.”
The incident is the latest in a series of underwater infrastructure breaches in the Baltic Sea, including the Finnish-Estonian Estlink 2 power line and multiple telecom cables last year. NATO has since increased its presence in the region, deploying frigates, patrol aircraft, and naval drones as part of the Baltic Sentry mission to protect critical infrastructure.
Captain Marko Laaksonen of the Finnish Navy emphasised the importance of NATO’s operation in deterring potential threats. “The enhanced presence safeguards sea connections and infrastructure that are vital for all of us,” he told Radio Suomi.
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said Finland and the EU are working closely to counter hybrid threats and illegal maritime practices linked to shadow fleets, often associated with Russia. These poorly insured, aging vessels have been accused of sanctions evasion and deceptive tactics.
“We are in a situation where Russia is waging an aggressive war in Europe in violation of international law. It must be addressed,” Valtonen said.
The investigation into the Vezhen is ongoing. Swedish authorities have yet to confirm whether the vessel caused the cable damage intentionally or by accident. Meanwhile, Latvia has also launched a separate inquiry into the incident.
HT
