Preliminary investigation opened into unseaworthiness of Flora 1
During the day, a suspicion of unseaworthiness under the Maritime Code (Sjölagen) has arisen. A prosecutor is now leading a preliminary investigation in which further investigative measures are necessary, including a search of premises. The Coast Guard continues its work in line with the prosecutor's instructions.
Published: 3 Apr 2026 at 6:38 PM
The vessel Flora 1 was boarded on Friday morning, shortly after half past seven. It is anchored south of Ystad. There are 24 crew members on board, of different Asian nationalities. Staff from the Swedish Coast Guard are also on board.
Two preliminary investigations are now under way at the same time, led by different prosecutors. One concerns a suspected environmental crime. The other concerns unseaworthiness. In the first, two members of the crew have been formally notified that they are suspected of an offence under the Act on Measures to Prevent Pollution from Vessels (lagen om åtgärder mot förorening från fartyg). They have not been arrested.
More information in the Swedish Prosecution Authority's press release: Status report in oil spill case
Because of preliminary investigation secrecy, the Coast Guard cannot give more information about the ongoing investigation until Saturday at the earliest.
