Paul Watson Released After Five-Month Detention Following Extradition Rejection

Paul Watson, the founder of Sea Shepherd and a notable advocate against whaling, has been freed from custody after Denmark rejected Japan's extradition request. Watson emphasized the arrest brought attention to Japan's controversial whaling practices.

Paul Watson, the renowned anti-whaling activist and founder of the marine conservation organization Sea Shepherd, has been released from prison in Greenland after being held for five months on an international arrest warrant. His attorney confirmed that Denmark declined Japan's extradition request, allowing Watson to return home.

Watson, who is 74 years old, was detained in July following charges stemming from a 2010 incident in which he allegedly interfered with a Japanese whaling vessel, reportedly causing injury to one of its crew members. This arrest was based on a warrant issued by Japan in 2012.

His lawyer, Julie Stage, expressed relief at his release, stating, “He is obviously relieved and is now looking forward to reuniting with his wife and children.” Following his release, Watson posted a video expressing gratitude for being free, stating, “After five months, it’s good to be out, and good to see that they’re not going to send me to Japan. So now I go home for Christmas.”

Sea Shepherd, founded by Watson in 1977 after he left Greenpeace, is recognized for its bold campaigns aimed at confronting illegal whaling, shark finning, and other maritime practices. Watson commented on his detention, noting, “My arrest has focused international attention on Japan’s continuing illegal whaling operations and their intent to go back to the Southern Ocean,” suggesting that the time spent behind bars merely extended his campaign against whaling activities.

Responding to inquiries regarding his release, the Danish Ministry of Justice indicated that the unique circumstances and the duration of the time elapsed since the accusations played a role in the decision not to proceed with the extradition. Watson's lawyer lauded the Danish authorities for not acquiescing to Japan, reiterating her belief that the allegations against him are unfounded.

Watson's activism has not gone unnoticed; he gained wider recognition from his portrayal in the documentary series “Whale Wars,” which aired from 2008 to 2015, chronicling Sea Shepherd's efforts to halt whaling practices. His release marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding whaling and marine conservation efforts globally.