French Navy Detains Captain of Suspected Russian Oil Tanker

The captain of a tanker suspected of violating sanctions against Russia has been detained by French authorities. The Indian captain was taken into custody for questioning following the interception of the oil tanker, the Grinch, by the French navy in the Mediterranean Sea. The ship was diverted to the Gulf of Fos-sur-Mer, where it was handed over to judicial authorities, according to a statement from the Marseille prosecutor’s office.

Reports indicate that the Grinch originated from Murmansk in northwestern Russia and is believed to be part of the sanctioned Russian “shadow fleet.” French media also noted that the crew, also of Indian nationality, remains on board the vessel. A preliminary investigation has been initiated, focusing on charges of failing to fly a flag.

Details of the Interception

Earlier this week, the French military released a video showing navy personnel boarding the Grinch from a helicopter. This operation is part of a broader effort by France and other nations to crack down on vessels circumventing sanctions imposed due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. It is estimated that Russia operates a fleet of over 400 ships to evade these sanctions, utilizing aging vessels owned by opaque entities registered in non-sanctioning countries.

In September 2022, French naval forces intercepted another oil tanker off the French Atlantic coast, which President Emmanuel Macron also connected to the shadow fleet. The captain of that vessel is scheduled to stand trial in February for alleged non-cooperation with authorities.

The Marseille prosecutor’s office did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding the current investigation. As the situation unfolds, France aims to reinforce its commitment to enforcing international sanctions and addressing violations related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.