paroolNov 11, 2026, 06:48

'Espionage' over ports of Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Antwerp: data trader wanted to spy on oil tanks with drones

An American data firm sought to hire a drone operator to spy on oil storage tanks in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Antwerp using thermal cameras to gauge inventory levels for speculators. The Dutch drone operator rejected the contract and reported the company to authorities, citing safety concerns and the illegal nature of flying over vital infrastructure without permission.

An American data analysis firm attempted to hire a Dutch drone operator to conduct weekly surveillance flights over petrochemical complexes in the ports of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Antwerp. Using advanced thermal cameras, the firm intended to measure oil tank levels from the air, providing highly valuable data to commodity speculators. The American company explicitly stated that they did not intend to notify the terminal owners, which led the Dutch operator to decline the contract due to safety and ethical concerns. They subsequently reported the incident to the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT).

Authorities have expressed serious concerns regarding the proposal, noting that these facilities constitute vital infrastructure. Flying drones over such sites without permission is prohibited, and regulators have escalated the matter to the National Coordinator for Security and Counterterrorism. While it remains unclear if any unauthorized flights were ultimately carried out, the incident has prompted a broader discussion about corporate espionage and the limitations of current drone oversight in sensitive industrial areas.

Technology Amsterdam Netherlands World

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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