SEATTLE (AP) — The U.S. Coast Guard says it temporarily detained two dozen protesters who formed a blockade with kayaks and other vessels as Royal Dutch Shell's drill rig left Seattle on its way to explore for oil in the Arctic Ocean.

Coast Guard Lt. Dana Warr says the protesters who violated the safety zone around the Polar Pioneer early Monday were scooped from the water. They were given violation notices and later released.

Petty Officer Amanda Norcross said late Monday night that the Coast Guard had not had interactions with any more protesters as the rig continued its voyage.

Polar Pioneer Photo Credit: David Ryder, Getty Images
Polar Pioneer Photo Credit: David Ryder, Getty Images
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Some protesters indicated they hoped to confront it off Port Townsend on Washington's Olympic Peninsula. However, Norcross noted a gale warning was in effect in that area.

A marine traffic website showed the vessel under way off Port Townsend late Monday.

Shell spokesman Curtis Smith says the rig is on its way to Alaska and the company remains "committed to operating in a safe, environmentally responsible manner."

(Story by: Phuong Le, The Associated Press)

 

 

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