Norway Arrests Ship Officer For Flying Personal Drone Over A Commercial Port

Norway has arrested a ship’s officer for flying a personal drone over a commercial port, as the country intensifies its port security measures amid growing concerns about espionage.

The ship’s officer was arrested, fined and threatened with deportation. The officer, whose identity is unknown, was imprisoned, fined, and threatened with deportation.

This is the latest incident in Norway’s attempt to combat unauthorized drone use, especially in areas of risk like ports and oil platforms.

Per the Gard, a maritime insurance provider, the ship’s officer was flying the drone at a port where the vessel was berthed. However, it is unclear whether the drone was used for personal or professional purposes.

Gard warned that Norway’s authorities take drone-related activities seriously, especially given the current geopolitical conditions and increasing concerns about Russian spying.

Several Russian nationals have already been detained for flying drones close to airports and other important sites, including oil platforms.

The case comes as Norway’s drone use restrictions tighten after previous incidents in which drones were flown near sensitive areas.

Gard stated that in Norway, drone operators must register their devices, undergo proficiency tests, and adhere to the regulations.

These include keeping the drone below 120 meters of height, keeping it in line of sight, and avoiding restricted areas like airports, ports, and privacy-sensitive locations.

Foreign nationals who violate these laws may face penalties, legal action, and deportation, especially if they fly drones in restricted zones.

Norway began increasing port security earlier this summer, focusing on Russian fishing vessels. These ships are still allowed to call at some Norwegian ports, but their movements and crew shore leave have been restricted due to concerns that they may be involved in espionage.

The Norwegian government has approved an additional $24 million budget increase for the Police Security Service in 2025, with over $5 million set aside to improve port security.

Gard stated that drone use in the maritime sector is common for inspections, safety checks, and aerial imaging, but there are strict regulations.

They warned that drone operations, even if carried out for work purposes, could result in serious legal consequences if regional rules are violated.

The case followed a series of incidents using drones in other nations, like Egypt, where seamen were jailed for carrying or using drones in restricted areas.

Reference: Shipping Telegraph, TradeWinds

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Source: Maritime Shipping News