Denmark Frees Paul Watson After 149 Days, Rejects Japan Extradition

Dec 17, 2024, 11:20 AM

Denmark has decided not to extradite environmental activist Paul Watson to Japan, resulting in his release after 149 days of detention in Greenland. Watson, the founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland, following a Japanese extradition request related to his anti-whaling activities dating back to a 2010 clash. The Danish Ministry of Justice's refusal of the extradition request allows Watson to return home to France in time for Christmas, where he lives with his wife and two young children. The decision has been welcomed by environmental groups and supporters worldwide.