Natia is still fighting for her husband’s freedom. Captain Avtandil Kalandadze, the Georgian Ship’s Captain, has been arrested by the US Navy. The captain was taken prisoner while on the oil transport Marinera. This ship, previously known as Bella 1, has been detained since January 7th, 2023. The ship was confiscated by American law enforcement after it was allegedly spotted breaking an American naval blockade off the coast of Venezuela in UK waters.
The Marinera, closely associated with the government of Venezuela, was chased across the Atlantic Ocean by US military forces prior to its capture. At first it illegally raised the flag of Guyana before later hoisting a Russian flag. Captain Kalandadze’s detention is worrisome from both a maritime law and international relations standpoint, especially considering the current political climate surrounding Venezuela.
Aamer Anwar, solicitor for Natia Dzadzama, has lodged the complaint. She recently filed a petition for writ of habeas corpus to challenge the lawfulness of her husband’s detention. The goal of the petition is to reform Captain Kalandadze’s arrest to shed light on its impending legal complexion. It further provides an avenue to remedy any violations of his constitutional rights.
“Today we lodged a petition for judicial review of the lawfulness of the detention of Captain Avtandil Kalandadze.” – Aamer Anwar
At a hearing on Monday evening, Lord Young, granting an interim interdict, granted it in a limited form. This decision prevents Captain Kalandadze and the Marinera crew from being deported. Additionally, they have to stay within the geographic jurisdiction of the court. Anwar added that Natia Dzadzama is in a state of extreme stress given that her husband’s life and safety aboard the ship are at risk.
“The captain’s wife is reasonably concerned about her husband’s safety and security on the ship, and today we are seeking the intervention of the Scottish court of session in order to protect the legal rights of her husband.” – Aamer Anwar
While UK’s armed forces supported the operation that resulted in the capture of the Marinera earlier this January. During these proceedings, Natia Dzadzama and her legal team work vigorously to uphold Captain Kalandadze’s rights. They are resolute in wanting to understand the basis for his continued detention while the case proceeds and beyond.