Finnish authorities investigating last week’s disruption of a vital telecommunications cable in the Gulf of Finland have identified substantial evidence that a ship’s anchor dragged along the seabed for considerable distances. Central to this investigation is the general cargo vessel, Fitburg, which was seized by Finnish special forces on December 31 after underwater surveys revealed extended drag marks leading to the compromised Elisa cable.
Finnish officials suspect that the anchor and chain of the Fitburg may have caused significant damage, prompting the Central Criminal Police to treat the incident as potential sabotage. They are examining possible aggravated damage and interference with telecommunications. Detective Chief Superintendent Risto Lohi emphasized that authorities are currently assessing whether the incident was accidental or intentional.
The Fitburg, en route from Russia to Israel carrying steel products, was intercepted in a coordinated operation involving Finnish Border Guard helicopters and special units. Joint underwater surveys with Estonian authorities aim to determine the full extent of the seabed damage. Following the incident, one crew member has been arrested, and a total of four are under detention or travel restrictions, with all 14 crew members questioned.
Despite the damage, Finnish officials assured that everyday communications remain unaffected, citing that internet traffic is automatically rerouted through backup systems when disruptions occur. The Fitburg is currently under guard as investigators conduct forensic analyses, a process expected to take weeks. The incident highlights growing concerns over "hybrid threats" in the Baltic Sea, especially since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has raised alarms over the security of critical infrastructure.
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