Russian-linked tanker crew accused in Finland-Estonia undersea cable sabotage probe

Finnish authorities have formally accused senior officers aboard the Eagle S, an oil tanker linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, of criminal misconduct following significant damage to vital undersea infrastructure between Finland and Estonia late last year. The incident, which took place on December 25, 2024, involved the severing of the Estlink-2 power cable and communication lines—key arteries supporting energy and data flows in the Baltic region.

According to Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation, the Eagle S dragged its anchor for nearly 100 km along the seabed, damaging the Estlink-2 cable at depths of up to 90 m. The vessel, flagged in the Cook Islands, was carrying 35,000 tons of oil at the time of the incident. Finnish investigators later escorted the vessel towards a Finnish port after identifying it as the likely cause of the disruption.

Three senior officers aboard—the master, chief mate, and second mate—are now suspected of aggravated criminal mischief and aggravated interference with telecommunications. 

The Finnish police have now transferred the investigation results to prosecutors for a decision on formal charges.