Libyan PFG in Tobruk Prevents Tanker to Enter Harika Port

The Members of the Libyan Petroleum Facilities Guard (PFG) in Tobruk prevented Tuesday a tanker from entering the Harika oil port in Tobruk.

The tanker was prevented from entering the port after the Petroleum Facilities Guard members demanded their delayed salaries for nearly a year.

Some sources are now concerned that the PFG, might take similar action at other eastern ports where it is stationed, such as Ras Lanuf, Es Sider, Brega, and Zueitina. But others said the issue is likely to be resolved in a matter of days.

"It is only a matter of salary payment and there is no military action associated," a shipbroker said. "We expect this to resolve quickly as the oil exports are key to the country."

No impact on freight rates was reported in the tanker market. Unipec was reported with a Suezmax cargo from Marsa El Hariga to China, set to load Jan. 18, and had received 11 offers from shipowners in the region.

The Mediterranean-to-Far East run on Suezmaxes remains under pressure amid ample ship supply and subdued cargo activity in the Mediterranean basin, and was assessed at $2.25 million on Jan. 4, according to Platts data.