M/V Bandero

The M/V Bandero is an activist vessel associated with the Paul Watson Foundation, known for its direct action tactics against whaling and other perceived environmental threats. The organization has recently gained attention for an incident in the Antarctic where the M/V Bandero intentionally rammed a krill fishing vessel belonging to the Norwegian company Aker Qrill. This act, described by activists as "aggressive non-violence," occurred while the krill trawler was operating in Antarctic waters. Aker Qrill has announced its intention to pursue legal action against the activists. Paul Watson, founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (also associated with the Paul Watson Foundation), dismissed Aker Qrill's reaction as overly dramatic. The incident highlights the ongoing conflict between environmental activist groups and industries operating in sensitive polar regions, raising questions about the methods used to protect marine ecosystems and the legal ramifications for such actions.