The US Justice Department has fined ship management firm Fleet Management $10m for its role in the Cosco Busan oil-discharge disaster and its subsequent cover-up.
The fleet’s ship had struck the San Francisco Bay Bridge in November 2007, resulting in the death of at least 2,000 migratory birds, including the federally endangered Brown Pelican.
The US Justice Department’s attorney Joseph Russoniello said the fleet had failed to meet its obligation under international law to ensure the crew was adequately trained on navigation procedures and equipment, and then tried to cover it up, according to a statement.
The Hong Kong-based firm was also asked to enforce a comprehensive compliance plan, including heightened training and voyage planning for ships engaged in trade in the US.
