Vox files formal complaint against NGO ship
The Spanish political party Vox has submitted a formal complaint to the Maritime Captaincy of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, demanding a full inspection of the NGO vessel Open Arms. The ship, which was docked in the capital’s port until this morning, has become the center of a significant political dispute. Vox asserts that the ship represents a “high risk” both for receiving visitors and for its participation in migrant rescue operations in the Atlantic.
Allegations of illegal rescue operations
In the official document, Nicasio Galván, Vox’s spokesperson in the Canary Islands Parliament, argues that “the rescue of migrants is not lawful,” claiming the crew “waits to enter Spanish waters to assist foreign nationals illegally.” He further added that “it is also not lawful to collaborate in any way with their transit, transport, or disembarkation.”
A history of inflammatory rhetoric
The ship’s visit to the Canaries had already sparked controversy following statements from Vox’s national leader, Santiago Abascal. On August 28th, Abascal called for the ship’s “confiscation and sinking,” referring to it as a “slave ship.” These remarks were met with a fierce response from the President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, who from the deck of the Open Arms itself labeled Abascal an “authentic fascist.”
Demands for safety inspection and activity suspension
Vox Canarias is requesting that the maritime authorities verify the ship’s compliance with all technical conditions, safety requirements, pollution prevention measures, and activity licenses. Should any irregularities be found, the party is demanding the immediate impounding of the vessel and the suspension of all its activities. This includes both its rescue missions and the public awareness events it had planned during its stay in the archipelago.
Citing the vessel’s age and lack of authorization
The party emphasizes that the vessel, which is over 12 years old and has a history of penalties, poses a risk to the public. They also stress that “there is no record of the Spanish government authorizing the NGO to carry out rescues in the Atlantic or any other sea.”
