A London court has sentenced Russian mariner Vladimir Motin to six years in prison after finding him responsible for the death of a crew member in a high-profile maritime collision in the North Sea. The ruling was delivered on Thursday by Judge Andrew Baker at the Old Bailey Central Criminal Court in London.

Motin, 59, was commanding the Portuguese-flagged container vessel Solong on 10 March 2025 when it struck the anchored U.S.-registered oil tanker Stena Immaculate off the east coast of England. The impact triggered a fire and explosion, engulfing both vessels.

During the trial, the court heard that Mark Angelo Pernia, a 38-year-old Filipino crewman working on the bow of the Solong, was killed instantly in the collision; his body was never recovered. Prosecutors argued that Motin failed to maintain a proper lookout and neglected fundamental navigational duties, contributing to the accident.

In imposing the sentence, Judge Baker described Motin’s conduct as grossly negligent and characterised his defence explanations as “implausible”, saying the accident was “wholly avoidable”. The judge noted that Motin’s testimony during the trial lacked credibility and did not align with the available evidence.

The Solong was transporting a mixed cargo, including alcohol and hazardous materials, while the Stena Immaculate was loaded with jet fuel. Both crews were rescued following the crash, but the tragedy left one life lost and raised serious concerns about bridge watchkeeping standards and safety practices at sea.

Legal analysts say the six-year term highlights the UK judiciary’s stern approach to maritime safety breaches that result in loss of life. Motin’s sentence reflects the gravity of failing to execute basic safety responsibilities expected of a ship’s master.