The liquor baron Vijay Mallaya’s $ 93 million superyacht was seized in Malta, Europe. Since September last year, Mallaya did not pay wages to the crew members.
The port officials seized the 95 meter Indian Empress as a part of legal action against Mallaya. The yacht was seized under maritime lien allowing the crew members to retain the vessel over unpaid dues. A maritime lien allows the creditor to retain the properties of the debtor until the debt is paid.
Danny McGowan, A Strategic Organiser of the Nautilus International said, “Our members on board gave their employer and the shipowner multiple opportunities to pay monthly wages, displaying a loyalty and restraint greater than many would show in such situations.”
McGowan further added under the International Maritime Labour Convention, they recovered $ 615, 000 from the yacht’s insurers and still a large amount is yet to be paid by Mallaya.
As per the reports from the port officials, there are more than 40 crew members. The crew includes Britons, several Indians and Eastern European workers.
