🚢 Bodden Shipping confirms pilots' arrest amid Sea Elephant investigation

Bodden Shipping, a local shipping line, has confirmed the arrest and detention of two of its pilots in relation to the grounding of the oil tanker, Sea Elephant, on Cayman Brac. The company has refuted a local article suggesting that it had ceased its piloting services in protest, stating that it was not at fault for the tanker's inability to dock in Grand Cayman. The company has pledged to provide pilot services for the Sea Elephant once berthing is available. The tanker currently remains offshore as investigations and inspections continue. 🚢

The two pilots, along with the master of the Sea Elephant, were arrested on suspicion of offences under the National Conservation Act. Bodden Shipping has expressed its willingness to assist authorities with the investigation, despite initial offers to cooperate being rejected. The company is awaiting the conclusion of the investigation and the exoneration of its pilots. Bodden Shipping also denied allegations of having "retired" all its Caymanian pilots, stating that the lack of new Caymanian hires is due to the absence of candidates with the necessary advanced Master Mariner qualifications. 🕵️‍♂️

Despite the ongoing investigation, Bodden Shipping reassures that their pilotage services have not been suspended or terminated. The company confirmed that another oil tanker, the GTM Germany, had successfully docked at Jackson Point terminal recently to deliver fuel. The shipping line remains committed to its professional duties and is eager to assist authorities with their investigations. 🛳️