Ship Safety Case Collapses: Two Men Cleared After Maritime Probe
Charges Dropped Against Southampton Duo
Matthew John Okorie, 25, and Sunday Sylvester, 22, were set to appear at Southampton Crown Court on January 29, 2021, facing charges under the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 for conduct endangering ships. Now, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has dropped all charges following fresh evidence.
CPS Halts Case After New Maritime Evidence
The decision came after additional expert testimony emerged during the ongoing investigation. Senior District Crown Prosecutor Sophie Stevens said:
“The CPS has a duty to keep all cases under continuous review and after additional maritime expert evidence came to light, we concluded there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction and discontinued the case.”
Five Others Also Released From Charges
Meanwhile, five other men arrested over accusations of seizing or controlling a ship by force or threats remained on police bail until January 25, 2021. They will now also face no further action in connection with the Hampshire Constabulary-led investigation.
However, authorities confirm the five men will stay detained under immigration powers following official procedures.
