British armed forces have reportedly detained an oil tanker in the English Channel (La Manche) early in the morning, which is said to be linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.”
According to sea-news.az UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the operation.
The UK Ministry of Defence stated that the approximately six-hour operation involved Royal Marines special units, officers from the National Crime Agency, and the Royal Air Force (RAF).
The tanker, identified as “Smyrtos,” was boarded and will remain under control near the southern coast of England until investigations are completed.
Prime Minister Starmer described the operation as a “significant step” within the framework of sanctions against Russia.
It is also noted that the UK has previously taken action against hundreds of sanctioned vessels and continues to strengthen monitoring of the so-called “shadow fleet.”
