Paul Watson Remains in Greenland Detention as Extradition Decision Looms

COPENHAGEN, Nov 13 – Paul Watson, the founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, will stay in detention in Greenland while Danish authorities decide whether to extradite him to Japan. Watson, 73, was arrested in July when his ship arrived in Nuuk, Greenland.

Greenland’s court has extended his detention until December 4 while Denmark reviews his extradition case. Watson’s lawyer has appealed the decision and is waiting for a ruling from Denmark’s Supreme Court.

Japan wants Watson for charges related to a 2010 incident in the Antarctic, where he allegedly boarded a Japanese whaling ship, causing damage and injury. Watson denies the charges and faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted in Japan.

Denmark’s Ministry of Justice is reviewing statements from both Greenlandic police and Japan before making a final decision on the extradition. Watson’s supporters continue to monitor the situation as the case unfolds.