Turkey's Supreme Court has upheld 30-year sentences against Capt Marko Bekavac and Chief Officer Ali Albokhari for negligence, though the master was released last year while his crewmate remains in prison, reports the UK's Seatrade Maritime News.

The court voted three to two to confirm the convictions, despite releasing Capt Bekavac in August 2025 under unclear circumstances without papers or passport. Chief Officer Albokhari remains jailed, prompting his wife Elena to say she was devastated and still lacks clarity on what her husband is accused of.

The Finnish Foreign Office said it is in contact with Albokhari's spouse and continues to press Turkish authorities for details of the conviction. Officials admitted they have not received clarification despite repeated requests since last August.

The case has raised wider concerns in the maritime industry, with at least two other crew arrested in Turkey over the past year. Observers say the court must explain why the Captain was freed while the Chief Officer remains imprisoned.

Croatian press reports alleged Capt Bekavac's release may have been linked to the case of Mustafa Yigit Zeren, chairman of the Zeren Group, who was arrested in Croatia but later freed. The circumstances surrounding both releases remain shrouded in mystery.