Indian Captain Arrested in UK Over Sanctioned Oil Tanker Incident
An Indian captain, Ajay Pant, has been arrested in the UK, facing charges related to violating sanctions against Russia. The 38-year-old, from Nainital, was captured as his tanker, MV Smyrtos, was navigating the English Channel, on its way from Russia to India. His family in Uttarakhand has reached out to the Indian government, urging them to assist in ensuring his safe return.
Pant made an appearance via video link at Southampton magistrates’ court, where he was charged with illegally transporting prohibited Russian oil. His lawyer, James Diamond, argued that Pant had no say in the tanker’s journey or its cargo. “He’s just an employee doing his job and now finds himself in a British court,” Diamond explained.
The tanker was intercepted by Royal Marines and officers from the National Crime Agency after entering UK waters without proper documentation. Pant was identified as the ship’s captain and has been held in custody since his arrest.
The case has been sent to Bournemouth Crown Court, with a plea hearing scheduled for July 16. If found guilty, Pant could face up to 10 years in prison.
Shailesh Bagauli, Uttarakhand’s home secretary, stated that the state government has contacted the Indian central government for support in Pant’s case. The Indian high commission has been allowed to meet with Pant in the UK.
Meanwhile, 24 crew members from India and Georgia remain aboard the vessel, which is currently anchored off Weymouth, being monitored for safety and environmental risks.
Pant’s wife, Ritu, expressed her distress, having learned of her husband’s arrest through social media, and stated she had not received any official communication from authorities. She emphasized Pant’s clean record over his 15-year maritime career, insisting he is not at fault but was merely following orders.
The tanker had previously loaded crude oil in Russia and was headed for Gujarat before its recent complications with its flag. It had been operating under the Cameroonian flag until it was removed from the registry.
This incident marks a significant enforcement action by the UK, as the government seeks to disrupt the operations of a shadow fleet—comprised of around 700 vessels that carry a substantial amount of Russia’s sanctioned oil exports, contributing to the country’s military activities in Ukraine.
