Stamatis Molaris-owned Empire Bulkers has been charged with pollution offences allegedly involving a handysize bulker in the US.

The US Department of Justice (DoJ) said that the Greek shipping company was indicted in New Orleans over violations of environmental and safety laws relating to the 33,700-dwt Joanna (built 2010).

The shipowning company, Joanna Maritime, and chief engineer Warlito Tan were also charged.