A Swedish investigation into the severing of two undersea cables in the Baltic Sea has found no conclusive evidence that the damage was intentional, suggesting that the vessel responsible may have accidentally severed the cables with its anchor.
A Swedish investigation into the severing of two undersea cables in the Baltic Sea last year has failed to find conclusive evidence that the damage was carried out intentionally. The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) said its report, released on Tuesday, suggests that the vessel responsible for the damage, the Yi Peng 3, may have accidentally severed the cables with its anchor.
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority, commonly referred to as SHK, is an independent agency responsible for investigating accidents and incidents in Sweden.
Established in 2006, the organization focuses on aviation, maritime, and rail transport accidents.
SHK's primary goal is to identify causes and provide recommendations for preventing future occurrences.
The authority conducts thorough investigations, often collaborating with international organizations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The “investigation found no clear indication of intentional sabotage”, according to the SHK’s report. The SHK’s report noted that the anchor might have come loose on its own, although this explanation is unlikely given the lack of damage to the ship and the length of time the anchor was dragged along the sea floor.
Undersea cables are crucial for global communication, facilitating the transfer of internet data between continents.
Spanning over 380,000 miles, these submersible fiber-optic cables carry approximately 97% of international internet traffic.
They connect major hubs in the US, Europe, and Asia, ensuring seamless data exchange.
With speeds reaching up to 100 terabits per second, undersea cables have revolutionized global connectivity, supporting e-commerce, online banking, and social media platforms.
The investigation also found that the vessel’s crew was not permitted to be questioned or the anchor examined until more than a month after the incident. The “crew had been allowed to sail on, despite being aware of the damage”, according to the SHK’s report.
The finding comes as authorities in the region are on high alert for possible sabotage amid Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and a series of incidents involving undersea cables and other infrastructure. Sweden, Finland, and Germany all launched investigations into the November 17-18 incidents, with Swedish police initially suspecting “sabotage”. China has provided information and documents to support an ongoing investigation, while Russia has denied involvement in any of the incidents.
A separate probe is still underway, led by Henrik Soderman, a Swedish prosecutor from the National Unit Against Organized Crime. The Swedish Prosecution Authority is conducting a preliminary investigation into a suspected crime, although the SHK’s report suggests that it may not lead to charges.
