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A Captain's Failures: The Deadly Collision at Sea

BritainWednesday, January 14, 2026
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Key Details

  • Location: London's Old Bailey court
  • Accused: Vladimir Motin, 59, captain of the Solong
  • Victim: Mark Pernia, 38, from the Philippines (body never found)
  • Incident: Collision with anchored tanker Stena Immaculate on March 10, 2025
  • Cargo: Aviation fuel on the Stena Immaculate

Prosecution's Case

  • Motin failed to take action to prevent the collision.
  • The collision lasted over half an hour.
  • Motin was the only one on watch.
  • Pernia's death could have been avoided.

Significance of the Trial

  • Highlights the importance of maritime safety.
  • Emphasizes the captain's responsibility for crew and vessel safety.
  • Potential consequences: Jail time if found guilty.

Potential Impact

  • The collision could have led to a fire or explosion.
  • The trial sets a precedent for accountability in maritime incidents.

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