Title: Finnish Police Investigate Possible Deliberate Act on Baltic Sea Gas Pipeline
In a concerning incident that has disrupted gas supplies to Finland, Finnish police are currently investigating the cause of damage to a Baltic Sea gas pipeline. The investigation is examining whether the damage was an accident or a deliberate act. The incident has sparked speculations and raised concerns regarding potential sabotage.
According to authorities, the damage to the pipeline, as well as two telecoms cables, was caused by an external mechanical force. Broad drag marks on the seabed were observed, leading investigators to the point of rupture. They have managed to retrieve a lost anchor from the seabed near the damaged area. There are suspicions that the anchor may belong to a Chinese container vessel, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation.
The National Bureau of Investigation is currently considering multiple factors in their ongoing inquiry, including possible negligence, poor seamanship, or intentional sabotage. However, it is too early to determine a motive. Attention is now centered on the Chinese vessel, NewNew Polar Bear, which was traveling above the pipeline and cables at the time of the incident. Officials have confirmed that the vessel is missing one of its front anchors, leading to further speculation.
China has called for an objective and fair investigation into the damage caused to the pipeline. As this incident disrupted gas supplies to Finland, the country will have to rely on imports of liquefied natural gas as a temporary solution. Meanwhile, NATO has increased patrols in the Baltic Sea as a precautionary measure following the pipeline damage.
This incident is reminiscent of a similar occurrence in September 2022, when the Nord Stream pipelines connecting Germany and Russia were intentionally damaged by explosions. Despite ongoing investigations, the culprits responsible for that act of sabotage remain unknown.
Finnish authorities are working diligently to uncover the truth behind this recent incident, both for their own national security and for the stability of gas supplies to their country. As the investigation continues, the possibility of an intentional attack on the Baltic Sea gas pipeline remains a significant concern, raising questions about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure in the region.
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