Ctg port probe finds no Iranian link with LPG-carrying ships

The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) has found no evidence linking two vessels, GAS GMS and Captain Nikolas, to Iran after allegations that they transported liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from the sanctioned country.

The LPG Operators Association of Bangladesh lodged a complaint on 6 October, accusing the vessels of illegally carrying Iranian LPG.

In response, a committee comprising officials from the CPA, Customs, the Bangladesh Coast Guard, and the Mercantile Marine Department was formed to investigate the allegation.

After thorough inspections of the vessels and a review of their cargo documentation, the committee submitted its findings on 3 December.

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The report concluded that there was no evidence supporting the allegations of an Iranian connection.

The investigation revealed that GAS GMS loaded 40,039.13 tonnes of LPG at Mina Rashid, UAE, through a ship-to-ship operation conducted from 4 to 14 September 2024. The vessel then refuelled at Khorfakkan, UAE, before proceeding to Chattogram.

Similarly, Captain Nikolas was found to have loaded 42,925.238 tonnes of LPG at Sohar, Oman, between 21 and 24 September 2024. The port call lists for both vessels showed no visits to Iranian ports, effectively debunking the allegations of illegal cargo origin.

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Both ships were also found to hold valid international certificates of fitness for the carriage of gas in bulk, verifying their compliance with global safety and operational standards.

The certificate for GAS GMS was issued in Dubai and remains valid until 6 August 2027, while the certificate for Captain Nikolas was issued in Tokyo and is valid until 16 March 2027. These certifications, along with their recent inspections, confirmed the vessels' legitimacy and safety for transporting liquefied gas, the investigation report says.