A court in Greenland has ruled that anti-whaling activist Paul Watson will remain in detention until Oct. 23, pending Denmark’s decision on his extradition to Japan. Watson is accused of obstructing a whaling research ship in 2010 and faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted in Japan.
Prosecutor Mariam Khalil alleged in court that Watson’s team had thrown harmful objects, including potassic acid, at the Japanese vessel. Watson’s legal team expressed disappointment with the ruling.
Watson, a well-known figure in environmental activism, was arrested in Greenland in July. Japan, seeking his arrest since 2010, does not have an extradition treaty with Denmark, which governs Greenland.
Despite the accusations, Watson maintains his innocence, stating, “I have operated within the boundaries of international law and practicality.” Whale meat is a staple in Japanese cuisine, with the government advocating for sustainable whale use.
Watson, a former member of Sea Shepherd and Greenpeace, founded his own organization known for aggressive tactics to protect marine life. The situation remains fluid as the legal process unfolds.
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