Freighter's First Mate Warned of Safety Issues Before Fatal Incident; Claims Retaliation

Concerns about safety aboard the Norwegian freighter Misje Verde were raised by the ship's own Russian first mate in January 2025, prior to a fatal incident where a mother and daughter died after their recreational boat was allegedly struck by the Misje Verde off the coast of Tjörn. The first mate contacted the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), reporting that the crew was overworked, lacked adequate rest, and was missing essential safety equipment.

“

The crew testified, among other things, that they had to perform work tasks they were not qualified for. I became worried. It is when safety procedures are not followed that accidents occur.

An ITF inspector, Jim McVeigh, boarded the vessel in Belfast and corroborated the crew's accounts, noting that they were performing tasks for which they were not qualified. McVeigh expressed concern that safety procedures were not being followed, increasing the risk of accidents. He escalated the issue to the British Maritime and Coastguard Agency, which conducted a port state control inspection.

“

The officer was clearly punished. We immediately contacted the shipping company and explained that this was unacceptable.

The inspection revealed twelve deficiencies, including violations of working and rest time regulations, inadequate fire protection, and a rescue boat that was not ready for use. Despite these findings, the ship was not detained. The exact circumstances of the Tjörn incident remain under investigation, and no direct link has been established between the earlier safety alarms and the fatal collision.

“

The mate took the crew with him. They did not perform their work. We from the office had to call the ITF for help to resolve the conflict.

Adding to the controversy, the first mate stated that he was fired the day after the inspection for disloyalty. McVeigh called this a clear act of retaliation and contacted the shipping company. The CEO of the shipping company, Roald Misje, however, characterized the situation differently, referring to it as a "mutiny" and stating that the first mate broke onboard routines. He acknowledged the safety issues found during the inspection but disputed the term "safety problems."

“

I mean that it is serious that he breaks the routine onboard. He has a responsibility for safety.