The Indian High Commission in London is closely monitoring the case of Captain Ajay Pant, an Indian merchant navy officer who has been arrested in the United Kingdom over alleged violations of British sanctions related to Russian oil shipments.
Pant, a resident of Nainital in Uttarakhand, is currently in judicial custody and is scheduled to appear before a British court again on July 16.
Why was Captain Ajay Pant arrested?
The case revolves around MV Smyrtos, a tanker that British authorities allege was linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”, which is accused of helping bypass Western sanctions on Russian oil.
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On June 14, the vessel, carrying around 98,000 tonnes of crude oil, was intercepted in the English Channel during a joint operation involving the UK National Crime Agency and the British Armed Forces.
According to British prosecutors cited by Hindustan Times, the tanker had entered UK territorial waters “without a legitimate flag”.
The vessel was reportedly sailing under the flag of Cameroon, but British authorities later described it as “stateless”. The tanker remains anchored near Weymouth in Dorset, per HT report.
This morning, UK forces boarded a Russian tanker in the English Channel that was secretly helping to bankroll Putin's war in Ukraine.
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) June 14, 2026
The first operation of its kind led by British forces, and a clear message: there is nowhere to hide. pic.twitter.com/RQdw7bmuQw
Charges and possible punishment
British authorities have accused Pant of violating sanctions by allegedly supplying or delivering prohibited Russian oil to another country during June 2026.
During court proceedings, prosecutor Varun Chuni said those convicted could face a "substantial" prison sentence of up to 10 years.
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According to shipping tracker MarineTraffic, the vessel departed from Russia's Ust-Luga port on June 5 and was headed towards Port Said in Egypt.
Indian mission monitoring the case
The Indian High Commission has remained in contact with the officer and informed Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami about the developments.
According to the UK mission, Pant is currently lodged at HMP Winchester. Indian officials established contact with him through the prison telephone system on June 19, reported HT.
Overnight, Royal Marines Commandos of the @RoyalNavy were involved in the interception of a shadow fleet vessel. They were supported by @HMSSutherland, @HMSLedbury and the Maritime Air Group.
— First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff (@GenGJenkinsRM) June 14, 2026
Mission success thanks to the skills, bravery and professionalism of our people. pic.twitter.com/jwde56O5lA
During the conversation, he reportedly said he was in good health, receiving medical care and staying in regular contact with his wife.
The tanker's remaining crew members, including Indian and Georgian nationals, continue to stay on board the vessel while investigations proceed.
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FAQs:
Why was Captain Ajay Pant arrested in the UK?
He was arrested over alleged violations of British sanctions related to Russian oil shipments.
When is Ajay Pant’s next court hearing?
His next court hearing is scheduled for July 16.
