Tripoli – The National Oil Corporation reported that the sea tug “Merdive,” contracted by the Mellitah Company, is continuing the operation of towing the Russian gas tanker until it reaches the location specified by the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority.

The Corporation explained in an update on the latest developments regarding the Russian tanker “Arctic Meta Gaz” that the distance covered has reached approximately 43 nautical miles from the starting point at a true speed of 2.9 knots, with the closest distance to land according to the latest update being 35.5 nautical miles.

It noted that the tug “Misrata,” affiliated with the Misrata Free Zone Authority, has arrived to escort the tanker, provide security, and intervene in case of emergencies. It highlighted that the Coast Guard and Port Security apparatus is accompanying the entire towing operation and, under its supervision, is securing the escort of the tanker and the towing tugs, ensuring navigational movement, and removing all obstacles to guarantee the safety of the voyage.

The Corporation pointed out that the path of the tanker and tugs is being monitored and tracked around the clock through the operations rooms at the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority and the joint operations room at the Search and Rescue Center to ensure maritime safety and address any emergencies. It clarified that it has assigned a specialized team in the field of gas emission measurement, which is currently carrying out its work on-site, and that there has been no oil leakage from the tanker during its journey so far.

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Tripoli

Tripoli is the capital and largest city of Libya, located on the country’s Mediterranean coast. Historically, it was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BCE and has since been ruled by a succession of powers, including the Romans, Arabs, Ottomans, and Italians, which is reflected in its diverse architecture, such as the ancient Roman Arch of Marcus Aurelius and the old walled Medina. Today, it serves as Libya’s major political, economic, and cultural center.

National Oil Corporation

The National Oil Corporation (NOC) is the state-owned oil company of Libya, established in 1970 to oversee and manage the country’s hydrocarbon resources. It was founded following the nationalization of the oil industry under Muammar Gaddafi’s government, consolidating control over Libya’s significant petroleum reserves. The NOC remains central to Libya’s economy and has been a key institution throughout periods of political conflict and division in the country.

Mellitah Company

Mellitah Company is a major Libyan energy joint venture established in 2008 between Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) and Italy’s Eni. It operates primarily in the exploration, production, and export of oil and natural gas, with key infrastructure including the Greenstream pipeline transporting gas from Libya to Italy. The company plays a central role in Libya’s hydrocarbon industry and is a key partnership linking the energy sectors of Libya and Europe.

Ports and Maritime Transport Authority

The Ports and Maritime Transport Authority is a governmental or regulatory body, typically established by a nation to oversee, manage, and develop its seaports and maritime activities. Its history is generally tied to a country’s economic and trade expansion, often formalized in the 20th or 21st century to centralize control, ensure safety, and boost efficiency in shipping and port operations. These authorities are crucial for facilitating international trade, enforcing maritime laws, and maintaining port infrastructure.

Misrata Free Zone Authority

The Misrata Free Zone Authority is a major economic hub and free trade zone in northwestern Libya, established in 2000 to attract foreign investment and boost trade. Historically, it has leveraged Misrata’s strategic port location to become a key gateway for imports and exports, playing a vital role in Libya’s economy despite challenges during the country’s conflicts.

Coast Guard and Port Security

The Coast Guard and Port Security are not a single cultural site but a modern maritime safety and defense system. Historically, such organized coastal protection evolved from early naval militias and customs services, with modern national Coast Guards (like the U.S. Coast Guard, founded in 1790) formally emerging to enforce laws, conduct rescues, and secure territorial waters. Today, these forces work globally to protect ports, prevent smuggling, ensure maritime safety, and defend coastlines.

Search and Rescue Center

A Search and Rescue (SAR) Center is an operational facility, not a historical or cultural site, dedicated to coordinating emergency response operations. Its history is tied to the development of organized civil defense and humanitarian aid, evolving significantly with advancements in technology and transportation to save lives during disasters, in wilderness areas, and at sea. These centers represent a modern societal commitment to safety and are typically run by government agencies, coast guards, or volunteer organizations.