Mangalorean Capt.

Glen Aroza detained in Taiwan since 4 months

Report & Pics by: Alvin Mendonca, Mangalore

Mangalore : Capt. Glen Aroza has been detained in Taiwan since April 17 2009, after M.V, TOSA, which is a large carrier registered in Panama, was taken from the high seas from international waters to Hualien in Taiwan. Speaking to Mangaloremithr reporter, Preetha Aroza wife of the Captain who resides at Bendore along with 3 children, said, on April 17, M V Tosa, a cargo vessel bearing Panama flag was moving from South Korea to Singapore in the international waters after discharge of Cargo. The vessel was allegedly involved with a fishing trawler of Taiwan.

Preetha claimed that the Simplified Voyage Data Recorder (SVDR) also revealed that there was absolutely no contact between Tosa and the foreign body. Also, investigations and underwater and hull inspection undertaken by the Taiwan and Singapore authorities concluded that Tosa was not involved in any kind of collission. Capt Aroza has been charged along with Duty Officer who is also the second officer Mohammud Karim from Bangaladesh and Seaman Edunardo Mallorca of the Phillipines.

Meanwhile, she has also approached DG Shipping in Mumbai in mid- July, Ministry of shipping, New Delhi, External Affairs Minister SM Krishna, The Indian- Taipei Cultural Association and Panama Embassy in New Delhi. All have assured that they would look into the issue, but in a period of four months, from being a mere witness, Capt Aroza has been charged of involuntary manslaughter. The Japanese Company NYK Ship Management Private Limited that owned the ship have also assured that they have appointed the best lawyers in the business. The request to get the case to Panama Jurisdiction was made on June 26. The international marine community has also assured help, but have also said that relevant pressures are essential.

Preetha firmly maintains, "My husband is innocent. According to the international law, the certified duty officer is solely responsible for safe navigation". Since April 17, Capt Aroza has been held back. First, he was held back for investigations and then for the first three months, he was told that he would be considered as mere witness. However, all of a sudden, he has been charged with involuntary manslaughter. The case has been moved to the court and the first hearing is scheduled for Aug 20. Capt Glen''s parents since the incident have been completely stressed out. Glen has not been out for more than four months. But this time, the period has crossed six months. While, their six year old child Megan is school-going, twins Ruth and Runa will complete two years this Sept. Glen has been planning since many months their birthdays. This incident points to the need for concerted efforts at national and international level to protect the rights of innocent seafarers.