The National Crime Agency (NCA) revealed that a Russian shadow fleet vessel’s captain, Ajay Pant, an Indian national aged 38, faces charges for violating sanctions. Pant is accused of unlawfully supplying prohibited oil or oil products from Russia to a third country by ship in June 2026, as per Section 46Z9B of the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
The tanker Smyrtos was seized in the Channel by Royal Marine commandos and NCA officers in the UK’s inaugural operation to apprehend a sanctioned vessel. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander issued an official order on Monday to prevent the ship from leaving UK waters.
Ajay Pant is scheduled to appear before Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, while the vessel currently sits anchored off Weymouth in Dorset with its 24 crew members hailing from Georgia and India. Violators of trade offenses like Pant could face penalties up to 10 years in prison, a fine, or both under the 2019 regulations.
Dan Jarvis, in his initial statement as Defence Secretary, emphasized the UK’s commitment to enforcing sanctions against Russia. He highlighted the impact of sanctioning over 550 Russian shadow fleet vessels, leading to around 200 vessels being immobilized. Jarvis asserted that the recent operation sends a strong message to Russia regarding the UK and its allies’ stance against Russian military activities.
During his statement, Jarvis was supported by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who he praised for her dedication to national security.
