The ship Scanlark, suspected of spying for Russia, was thoroughly inspected by German police. Investigators found surveillance equipment and suspect drone operations targeting military bases. The vessel had previously docked in Dutch ports of Rotterdam, Dordrecht, and Moerdijk.
Police in Germany carried out a spectacular operation on board the cargo ship Scanlark, suspected of espionage activities on behalf of Russia – German media reported. The 74-meter vessel was stopped in a port lock in Kiel, where about 40 special unit officers boarded.
According to the prosecutor’s office, Scanlark, sailing under the flag of Caribbean Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, could have served as a floating base for drone operations. On August 26, an unmanned aircraft reportedly took off from its deck and flew over a German Navy frigate in Kiel, likely taking photographs of military installations.
During the search, 360-degree cameras and GPS antennas were found – equipment unusual for a regular cargo ship. The prosecutor’s office is investigating whether the crew’s actions were of a spy nature and could have been aimed at sabotage. Five Russian-speaking men were on board. No one was detained, and the ship was not formally seized. However, the vessel remains in port, as some doors were damaged and navigation equipment dismantled during the search, rendering it currently unseaworthy.
Dutch Connection
The case also has a Dutch angle – Scanlark docked at Rotterdam’s Waalhaven and Botlek between September 2 and 5. The ship had previously visited Moerdijk, Dordrecht, and other locations in the Netherlands. Rotterdam port police confirmed a routine inspection had been carried out, but at that time no irregularities were found.
German authorities have not yet informed Dutch officials of their findings. The investigation into possible espionage activities is ongoing.