Nuuk, Greenland, 17 Dec 2024 – Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from a Greenland prison after spending five months in custody, following Denmark's refusal of a Japanese extradition request. Captain Watson, who marked his 74th birthday behind bars, is now free to celebrate Christmas with his family. This outcome is considered a significant win for human rights, environmental activism, and the anti-whaling movement.
“Sometimes, going to jail is necessary to make your point. Every situation offers an opportunity, and this was another chance to shine a global spotlight on Japan’s illegal whaling in the Southern Ocean Sanctuary. If I had been sent to Japan, I might never have come home. I’m relieved that didn’t happen,” stated Captain Paul Watson as he exited Nuuk Detention Centre.
Watson’s arrest has highlighted the misuse of the Interpol system, revealing how individuals can be detained on politically motivated charges without a comprehensive review of the evidence. This case emphasises the need for reform within international law enforcement mechanisms to prevent such injustices.
Paul Watson is a free man after serving 150 days without being tried for any crime. Denmark made the right choice today by dismissing this politically motivated and vindictive case from Japan; this is a victory for human rights and for whales!” said Locky MacLean, Ship Operations Director at CPWF.
Watson was apprehended on 21 July based on a 14-year-old Interpol notice from Japan. Danish authorities were informed of Watson’s location by the Faroe Islands Police, which tracked his foundation’s vessel as it left Dublin for anti-whaling missions. In late September, the Japan Coast Guard sent a senior official to Denmark to request Watson's extradition directly.
Watson’s defence maintained throughout his detention that the arrest was politically motivated, largely driven by the negative media attention his crew and he brought to Japan during the filming of Whale Wars, an action reality series aired on Animal Planet. Although time-stamped footage from the alleged incident clearly demonstrated his innocence, it was not permitted to be shown in the Greenland court.
Captain Watson’s detention has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of illegal Japanese whaling. Despite international treaties and regulations, Japan has resumed whaling at sea with the launch of the Kangei Maru, a $47 million factory processing vessel aimed at targeting endangered Fin Whales.
“We’re thrilled to announce that Captain Paul Watson has been released. Paul’s unwavering commitment to protecting our oceans and opposing illegal whaling has ignited a global movement. We are immensely grateful to our supporters for their incredible efforts, which were crucial to securing his freedom. With Captain Watson back, we are more motivated than ever to continue our fight for our oceans and ensure our mission remains strong. His release is a testament to those dedicated to environmental preservation. As he reunites with family, friends, and supporters, he remains committed to safeguarding marine life,” said Omar Todd, CEO of CPWF, who was present during Captain Watson's release.
During his detention, Captain Watson received widespread support from around the globe, including notable figures such as Jane Goodall, Pearl Jam, Sylvia Earle, President Macron, Brazil’s President, Martin Sheen, Richard Branson, and Pierce Brosnan. The #FreePaulWatson movement rallied thousands of supporters worldwide calling for justice.
Article Reference: Watson, P. (2024). Captain Paul Watson released from prison in Greenland. Captain Paul Watson Foundation.
