In Greenland, a court ruled on Thursday that environmental activist Paul Watson should remain in custody while authorities review Japan’s request for his extradition, according to police. The decision mandates that Watson stay detained until September 5 to ensure his availability for the extradition decision. Watson has filed an appeal with Greenland’s High Court regarding the ruling.
Paul Watson, a 73-year-old Canadian-American, is a prominent anti-whaling advocate who previously led the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. Known for his confrontational methods, including clashes with whaling vessels at sea, Watson has received support from celebrities and was even featured in the TV show “Whale Wars.”
Watson’s arrest occurred last month following an international warrant issued by Japan when his vessel docked in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. Japan subsequently requested Danish authorities to extradite Watson for trial in Japan. Greenland, being an autonomous territory of Denmark, is involved in this extradition process.
The Japanese coast guard pursued Watson’s arrest due to an incident in 2010 involving a Japanese whaling research ship. He was accused of obstructing the crew’s duties by allegedly instructing his ship’s captain to use explosives against the whaling vessel. Japan defends its whaling activities as part of its food culture and promotes the sustainable use of whales. After exiting the International Whaling Commission in 2019, Japan resumed commercial whaling within its economic zone.
Paul Watson departed from Sea Shepherd in 2022 to establish his own organization, having previously been associated with Greenpeace until 1977 when he parted ways due to disagreements over his aggressive tactics.
Greenland court extends detention of anti-whaling activist Paul Watson until Sept. 5
