The owner of the Portuguese-flagged container ship Solong, MS Solong Schiffahrtsgesellschaft M & Co KG—a subsidiary of Ernst Russ—has initiated legal proceedings in the UK’s Admiralty Court to establish a limitation fund.
This action follows a collision on 10 March 2025, where the Solong struck the anchored US military-contracted tanker Stena Immaculate off the northeast coast of England. The fund aims to address potential claims arising from the incident.
Collision Details and Legal Actions
The Solong collided with the Stena Immaculate, which was carrying jet fuel at the time. In response, the operators of the Stena Immaculate have filed a lawsuit against the Solong‘s owner in London’s High Court. Concurrently, the Ernst Russ subsidiary is seeking a “limitation of liability” through the Admiralty Court, targeting Dutch logistics firm Samskip—whose containers were aboard the Solong—and other potential claimants.
Establishment of the Limitation Fund
A spokesperson for Ernst Russ stated that the limitation fund is being set up to provide a structured means for parties with verified claims against the Solong‘s owner. Given that the incident occurred in UK territorial waters and involves UK-based stakeholders, including public authorities, establishing the fund in the UK is deemed appropriate. This approach is standard practice in significant maritime incidents, ensuring that necessary security is available for potential claimants.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Proceedings
The collision resulted in one crew member from the Solong missing and presumed dead. Additionally, the ship’s captain, Vladimir Motin, has been charged with manslaughter by gross negligence. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the collision and to address the legal ramifications for the involved parties.
“The establishment of this fund ensures an orderly process for all parties involved and reflects a responsible step by the shipowner to meet its legal obligations under UK maritime law.”
— Spokesperson for Ernst Russ Group
The establishment of the limitation fund by the Solong‘s owner represents a proactive measure to manage the legal and financial consequences of the collision with the Stena Immaculate. As the situation develops, affected parties are encouraged to engage with the fund to address their claims appropriately.
