- The Indian Coast Guard seized three oil tankers approximately 100 nautical miles from Mumbai. Officials reported that oil smuggling operations were taking place along the shipping route which connects to the Mediterranean. The authorities took control of the vessels to conduct further examination.
- Media reports based on official sources claim the ships possess connections to Iran. The vessels appeared on the United States sanctions list according to information provided by the authorities.
Identification of the Seized Vessels
- The three vessels have been identified as Stellar Ruby Asphalt Star and Al Jafzia. Officials reported that the vessels performed routine identity changes. This practice may have been used to avoid detection.
- Sources also stated that the ownership of these ships is based outside India. Investigators are currently working to uncover the operational and financial connections that exist within the company.
- A social media post by the Indian Coast Guard initially reported the detection of oil smuggling and the seizure of the vessels. The post was later deleted.
Iran Responds to Allegations
- Iranian state media rejected the claims regarding the seized vessels. Citing the National Iranian Oil Company, reports stated that the three ships are not connected to the company.
- The United States imposed sanctions on the vessels Global Peace Chill 1 and Glory Star 1 according to previous reports. The newly seized vessels share identical IMO numbers with the ships that received sanctions.
Increased Coastal Security Measures
- Indian authorities enhanced their coastal monitoring operations after the seizure. Security agencies deployed 55 ships and 10 to 12 aircraft to watch over the maritime area according to Reuters.
- Officials are currently examining all documents related to maritime operations including vessel records and international maritime regulation adherence.
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