A Hong Kong court is preparing to hear evidence in a case against Wan Wenguo, a Chinese captain of the Hong Kong-registered ship Newnew Polar Bear. He is accused of damaging the Balticconnector gas pipeline and telecom cables between Finland and Estonia on 8 October 2023.
Wan appeared in court on 20 January 2026, but the hearing was adjourned to 11 February. His lawyer said more time was needed to review documents before a plea is entered.
The defence said 18 witnesses are expected in total. Ten would testify on the main criminal damage charge, including crew members, Hong Kong officials and maritime experts.
Wan also faces two additional charges linked to ship safety rules. These relate to a missing anchor and reporting requirements while operating under the Hong Kong flag.
Authorities from Finland and Estonia have investigated the incident with Hong Kong prosecutors. Gasgrid Finland has said repairing the pipeline cost 35 million euros.
