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China ‘concerned’ about seizure of oil tankers by Indonesia

The handout aerial photo, taken on January 24, 2021 and released by the Indonesia Coast Guard, shows a seized Iranian tanker and Panamanian vessel in Indonesian waters. (By AFP)

China says it seeks information on 25 of its nationals who were among 61 crew members aboard two oil tankers seized by Indonesia over the weekend.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said in Beijing on Wednesday, “Our embassy has expressed concern to Indonesia.”

Beijing, the diplomat added, seeks formal verification on the situation of the Chinese seamen “as soon as possible.”

He called on Indonesia to conduct an investigation “fairly and in accordance with the law.”

Indonesian authorities said Sunday one Iranian and one Panamanian tanker had been seized for what the government said was "illegal" transfer of oil in Indonesia’s waters.

The MT Horse, owned by the National Iranian Tanker Company, was seized along with MT Freya, managed by Shanghai Future Ship Management Co, near Kalimantan island.

An Indonesian official has said the ships were seized after an oil spill was detected around the MT Freya while receiving oil from MT Horse.

Iran said Monday MT Horse was seized over a “technical issue.”

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has begun “initial communication” with China and Iran. Further discussion, it says, would depend on results from an investigation into the matter.

 


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