The first round of analysis of the substance in a spill in Tobago has been identified as being similar to a “diesel-like product.”

According to the Planning Ministry, samples from Cove Bay looked at by the Institute of Marine Affairs revealed refined oil consisting of both light and heavy hydrocarbon fractions.

The IMA will collect more samples to provide confirmation of the first-round results.

IMA Director, Dr Ava Maxam, says the next step is for T&T to reach out to regional territories with refineries for a comparison of the characteristics of the fuel found in the vessel.