VOI World/ Desk
Indian captain Ajay Pant has been detained in the United Kingdom after British authorities intercepted a sanctioned Russian oil tanker while it was passing through the English Channel on its way from Russia to India. The 38-year-old resident of Nainital, Uttarakhand, has been charged with violating sanctions and remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
Pant, the master of the vessel MV Smyrtos, appeared via video link before Southampton Magistrates’ Court after his arrest on June 14. British authorities allege that the ship was involved in transporting prohibited Russian oil to a third country, in breach of sanctions imposed by the UK and the European Union.
According to reports, the vessel is part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”, which Western governments say has been used to continue oil exports despite sanctions linked to the war in Ukraine. The UK’s Royal Marines and National Crime Agency boarded the ship after it entered British waters.
Pant’s lawyer argued before the court that the Indian captain had no control over the vessel’s destination or cargo and was merely carrying out instructions from his employer. Prosecutors, however, contend that he was responsible as the ship’s master. The offence carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.
Pant has been remanded in custody until a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled for July 16 at Bournemouth Crown Court.
Meanwhile, his family in Uttarakhand has appealed to the Indian government for assistance. State officials said the Uttarakhand government has written to the Centre seeking support for Pant’s release and return. India’s High Commission in the UK has reportedly established contact with British authorities and secured consular access.
