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Captain Charged for Breaching Russian Oil Sanctions in English Channel

Captain Charged for Breaching Russian Oil Sanctions in English Channel

First seen 16 Jun 2026, 20:28 UTC

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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster June 17, 2026 at 20:17 UTC
  • Ajay Pant charged with breaching sanctions related to Russian oil transport.
  • The MV Smyrtos was carrying 98,000 tonnes of oil at the time of seizure.
  • Pant's court appearance occurred on June 16, 2026, with a future court date set for July 16.

Ajay Pant, a 38-year-old captain, has been charged with breaching sanctions after the seizure of the MV Smyrtos, a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker, in the English Channel on June 14, 2026. The vessel was carrying 98,000 tonnes of oil and is part of a larger fleet used to transport oil globally. Pant appeared via video link at Southampton Magistrates Court on June 16, 2026, with no plea indicated and was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at Bournemouth Crown Court on July 16, 2026. The National Crime Agency conducted the investigation leading to the charges, emphasizing the importance of adhering to sanctions against Russia. The remaining 24 crew members from India and Georgia are still aboard the seized tanker, which is currently anchored off Weymouth.

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Timeline

2026-06-14
MV Smyrtos seized in English Channel
Royal Marine Commandos intercepted the Russian shadow fleet tanker carrying 98,000 tonnes of oil.
Cps.Uk
2026-06-15
Charges authorized against Ajay Pant
The Crown Prosecution Service charged Pant for breaching sanctions following the tanker seizure.
Cps.Uk
2026-06-16
Pant appears in court
Ajay Pant appeared via video link at Southampton Magistrates Court; he was remanded in custody.
Bbc
2026-07-16
Future court appearance scheduled
Ajay Pant is set to appear at Bournemouth Crown Court to face charges related to sanctions breaches.
Bbc

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