An urgent navigational warning has been issued regarding the Russian tanker “ARCTIC METAGAZ,” which was undergoing towing operations in the Mediterranean Sea off the Libyan coast. The warning was issued by the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority and the Libyan Search and Rescue Coordination Center.
Authorities confirmed that on April 22, 2026, at 15:00, the towing cable snapped on the side of the abandoned tanker during the towing operation.
The vessel’s current position is reported at latitude 33° 59'N and longitude 020° 02'E, approximately 120 nautical miles north of Benghazi.
Officials stated that the tanker is completely out of control and drifting freely, while the tugboat is currently unable to reattach it due to technical issues. The tanker is also still carrying a cargo of liquefied natural gas and fuel, raising concerns over environmental and navigational risks.
All ships operating in the area have been instructed to exercise extreme caution and maintain a minimum safe distance of 5 nautical miles in all directions. Masters have also been urged to immediately report any changes in the vessel’s condition, including gas leaks, smoke, or sudden changes in buoyancy, through designated maritime communication channels.
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