French Navy Detains Russian-Linked Oil Tanker Off French Coast
The French Navy has detained the oil tanker Boracay off the coast of France. The vessel, operated by Baaj Shipping and registered in Seychelles, has links to Russia's 'shadow fleet' and is under British and EU sanctions.
Boracay's journey began in Russia, leaving the port of Primorsk on September 20. It navigated through the Baltic Sea, North Sea, and English Channel before its detention. The tanker's past includes a detention in Estonia for sailing without a valid flag. Despite its Seychelles registration, the ultimate owners of the vessel remain unknown, further shrouding its operations in mystery. Baaj Shipping, the company operating Boracay, has not yet commented on the detention or the sanctions against the vessel.
The French Navy's detention of the Boracay highlights the ongoing scrutiny of vessels with suspected ties to Russia's 'shadow fleet'. The vessel's ultimate owners and its compliance with international regulations will now be subject to further investigation.
