Britain seizes Russian oil tanker; one Indian national arrested

London (UK) – Britain’s National Crime Agency has seized the oil tanker Smirtos, which is alleged to be linked to Russia’s “shadow fleet”, vessels used to transport cargo while allegedly circumventing international sanctions. During the operation, a 38-year-old Indian national was arrested on suspicion of violating sanctions. The action was carried out on 14 June by a joint team in London. The vessel’s 24 Indian and Georgian-Indian crew members and officers are cooperating with the investigation. The tanker is currently anchored off the coast of Dorset in the United Kingdom.

🚨 The UK has intercepted and seized the Cameroon-flagged tanker Smyrtos in the English Channel, carrying more than 100,000 tonnes of Russian crude oil.

British authorities have arrested and charged the vessel’s 38-year-old Indian captain, Ajay Pant, alleging violations of UK… pic.twitter.com/qzfGzEuc0L

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) June 16, 2026