Mauritius has appointed a former judge to lead an inquiry into the circumstances in which a Japanese-owned vessel, the Wakashio, entered its waters and spilled hundreds of tonnes of oil.
The MV Wakashio ran aground on a coral reef in July last year while carrying 4,000 tonnes of the fuel, causing an ecological emergency off the coast of Mauritius.
Former Judge Abdurraffeek Hamuth and his assessors will investigate the cause and extent of the damage caused by the bulk carrier.
Testimonies at the inquiry are expected to reveal how the hull of the vessel cracked.
About 15 people have so far confirmed their participation, including opposition leader, Arvin Boolell, maritime safety expert and social activist, Bruneau Laurette, along with government officials and crew members.
Captain Sunil Kumar Nandeshwar and his assistant Hitihamillage Subodha Janendra Tilakaratna were arrested after the vessel sunk.
A court in October rejected an application for bail made by the captain.