FBI Agents Swoop in on Synergy Marine Vessel; Dramatic Turn of Events After Baltimore Bridge Catastrophe
Federal agents boarded a vessel managed by Synergy Marine Group, the same company connected to the cargo ship involved in the deadly Baltimore bridge collapse, according to the FBI. The Maersk Saltoro, managed by Synergy Marine Group, was boarded by the FBI, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, and Coast Guard Investigative Services on Saturday. The Washington Post first reported the incident, following a similar raid on another Synergy-managed ship, the Dali, which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March.
A recent lawsuit filed by the U.S. Justice Department alleges that Grace Ocean Private Ltd. and Synergy Marine, both based in Singapore, knowingly neglected electrical issues on the Dali. These problems led to multiple power outages and the subsequent crash into the bridge, resulting in the deaths of six road workers and significant disruption of commercial shipping traffic. The Justice Department is seeking over $100 million in damages to cover the costs of clearing the debris and reopening the Port of Baltimore.
The lawsuit emphasizes that the Dali’s mechanical and electrical systems were poorly maintained, with previous reports of severe equipment issues ignored by Synergy. It also warns of similar risks with other vessels operated by Synergy, including the Maersk Saltoro. Darrell Wilson, a spokesperson for Grace Ocean, confirmed the boarding and expressed confidence in setting the record straight in court.
The Justice Department aims to deter such reckless behavior with punitive damages, stressing the grave consequences of the companies’ actions. The Dali, now en route to China, had been stuck amidst the wreckage for months. Authorities have not commented on whether the criminal investigation remains active.
Original Story https://www.cnbc.com/2024/09/21/fbi-agents-have-boarded-vessel-managed-by-company-whose-other-cargo-ship-collapsed-baltimore-bridge.html
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