Swedish Coast Guard

The Swedish Coast Guard (Küstenwache) is a civilian law enforcement agency responsible for maritime safety, security, and environmental protection within Swedish waters. Recent news highlights their role in monitoring and intercepting vessels suspected of illegal activities, particularly those potentially linked to Russia's 'shadow fleet.' The Coast Guard recently detained the Russian captain of a ship, the 'Sea Owl One,' suspected of sailing under a false flag. This action follows an earlier incident where the Coast Guard searched the oil tanker 'Flora 1' in connection to a potential oil spill near Gotland. These events underscore the Swedish Coast Guard's increasing vigilance in the Baltic Sea, especially concerning ships potentially circumventing sanctions or engaging in environmentally damaging practices. Their actions are significant in maintaining maritime law, protecting the Baltic Sea environment, and enforcing international regulations in the face of growing geopolitical tensions.