A man has been arrested in connection with a fire that broke out aboard an oil tanker in the North Sea.

The incident occurred on March 10, 2023, and led to an emergency response by local authorities and the coast guard.

The fire reportedly started in the engine room of the vessel, which was in the vicinity of Dutch territorial waters at the time of the incident.

The crew of the tanker activated safety protocols, enabling them to contain the fire until external assistance arrived.

No casualties were reported among the crew or responders.

The arrest follows an investigation initiated by maritime safety authorities, examining potential breaches of safety regulations and operational protocols on the vessel.

The tanker, which was carrying a significant load of crude oil, has since been towed to a nearby port for further inspection and assessment of damage.

Shipping routes in the area were temporarily disrupted as a precaution while the situation was being controlled.

Environmental agencies are monitoring the situation closely to ensure that no pollutants are released into the North Sea.

The authorities have not disclosed the identity of the arrested individual or the specific charges against them, as the investigation continues.