Swedish customs forces boarded the cargo ship Adler early this morning, supported by the coast guard and police, to search its cargo, according to Martin Hoglund, a spokesperson for Swedish customs. "The inspection is still ongoing," he stated.

The Adler has been anchored off Hoganas, southwest Sweden, since 19/12 due to engine trouble encountered while passing through the area. Spokesperson Hoglund noted that the Adler departed the Russian port city of St Petersburg on 15/12, but its destination remains unknown. He did not disclose what Swedish authorities have found on board.

Russian officials have not yet commented on the information.

The cargo ship Adler off Hoganas, Sweden, in a photo published on 20/12. Photo: Sydsvenskan

The Adler is a 126-meter-long container ship, equipped with a ramp for roll-on/roll-off (Ro-ro) vehicle access.

M Leasing LLC, the owner of the Adler, is on the European Union (EU) sanctions list, Hoglund confirmed. Additionally, the ship and its managing company face US sanctions over suspected involvement in arms transport activities.

Portuguese media reported that the Adler encountered difficulties last summer and was towed from Portuguese waters to Algeria after being denied entry to Portuguese ports.

In 2021, before the Adler was sanctioned, Greek special forces boarded the vessel for inspection while it was off the coast of Libya. They found nothing suspicious, but the incident caused diplomatic tension between Russia and Greece.

Pham Giang (According to Reuters)