An order has been given to “arrest” the Solo Creed tug boat.

The Energy Ministry says this follows legal proceedings filed by T&T in Angola.

It says the vessel is responsible for the damage caused by the oil spill in Tobago in February 2024.

The Solo Creed was towing and later abandoned the Gulfstream barge after it capsized.

The Gulfstream then drifted into Tobago’s waters, spilling large amounts of oil, impacting livelihoods and the environment.

The Ministry says the arrest was ordered by the Court to allow T&T to protect the fruits of its claim to recover a sum in excess of $244 million.

It adds that this sum is a preliminary figure, since the full cost of this spill continues to be tabulated.

The Tug Solo Creed was ordered to be arrested in Luanda, Angola and will not be allowed to leave that jurisdiction unless security is lodged to secure T&T’s interest.

It says Government will continue to pursue all legal proceedings to ensure that the rights and interests of the people of T&T are protected and vindicated.

It also vows to take all steps to hold the owners and/or persons interested in the vessel accountable for the extensive damage caused.

The Ministry is also continuing to pursue the recovery of money expended during the cleanup exercise from the International Oil Pollution Compensation Fund.