A court in Greenland has once again extended the custody of anti-whaling campaigner Paul Watson until November 13, as Denmark continues to consider a request for his extradition from Japan. This decision was made on Wednesday, much to the disappointment of Watson’s supporters who were hoping for his immediate release.
Watson, a Canadian environmental activist and founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, was arrested in Germany in May 2012 on an Interpol warrant issued by Costa Rica. He was accused of interfering with a shark finning operation in 2002, but he fled before he could be arrested and has been living in exile ever since.
In July 2012, Watson arrived in Denmark seeking asylum, but was arrested upon arrival due to the Interpol warrant. Since then, he has been held in custody in Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark, while the country considers Japan’s request for his extradition.
Japan has accused Watson of disrupting their whaling activities in the Southern Ocean, and has requested his extradition to face charges of obstruction of business. However, Watson and his supporters argue that his actions were in accordance with international law and were aimed at protecting endangered species.
This latest extension of Watson’s custody has sparked outrage among his supporters, who see it as a delay tactic by Denmark to appease Japan. They believe that Watson’s continued detention is unjust and that he should be released immediately.
However, the court in Greenland has stated that they need more time to consider the extradition request and gather more evidence before making a decision. This has been met with disappointment by Watson’s legal team, who have been fighting for his release for over six years.
Despite this setback, Watson remains positive and determined to continue his fight for the protection of marine life. In a statement released through his organization, he said, “I am disappointed but not discouraged. I will continue to fight for the oceans and the creatures that call it home, no matter how long it takes.”
Watson’s case has garnered international attention and support from environmentalists, celebrities, and politicians alike. Many have called for his release and have condemned Japan’s request for his extradition as an attack on freedom of speech and environmental activism.
Greenpeace, another prominent environmental organization, has also expressed their support for Watson and his cause. In a statement, they said, “We stand in solidarity with Paul Watson and his efforts to protect marine life. We urge Denmark to reject Japan’s extradition request and release him immediately.”
The decision to extend Watson’s custody has also sparked renewed calls for Denmark to grant him asylum. Many argue that he is a political refugee and should be protected under international law.
Watson’s supporters have organized protests and petitions, calling for his release and for Denmark to take a stand against Japan’s request. They believe that his continued detention is a violation of his human rights and are determined to keep fighting for his freedom.
As the world waits for Denmark’s decision, one thing is clear – Paul Watson’s fight for the protection of marine life is far from over. His dedication and determination have inspired many to join the cause and his message of conservation continues to spread.
In the words of Watson himself, “The oceans are in crisis, and we cannot afford to stay silent. We must continue to speak out and take action to protect our planet and all its inhabitants.” Let us hope that justice prevails and Watson is released to continue his important work for the oceans.
