The Westfjords police commissioner in Iceland has, for the second time, dropped an investigation into the August 2023 escape of farmed salmon from Arctic Fish's sea pens in Patreksfjordur, Mbl reported.

Authorities concluded the case was unlikely to lead to a conviction, citing insufficient evidence under Article 145 of the Criminal Procedure Act.

The incident involved approximately 3,500 salmon escaping through two holes in a sea pen housing over 72,500 fish. Despite extensive recovery efforts, including deploying divers from Norway, escaped farmed salmon were found in rivers nationwide.

Arctic Fish CEO Stein Ove Tveiten had been under investigation for potential negligence in ensuring adequate equipment at the fish farm. The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority, known as MAST, also pushed for an official inquiry into possible violations of the aquaculture act.

In December, police ended the investigation, despite the state prosecutor previously ordering its continuation in April 2024 following complaints from MAST and others. This marks the second time the case has been closed without charges.

Arctic Fish is an Icelandic salmon farming company that is majority-owned by Norwegian salmon farmer Mowi.