UK defends seizure of shadow fleet tanker as lawful action

London – The British government announced on Thursday that it is actively “disrupting and deterring shadow fleet vessels” in line with domestic and international law. The statement, issued by the Department for Business and Trade, underscored that authorities are employing maritime surveillance, boarding inspections and legal measures to target ships that are believed to be used to evade sanctions and transport prohibited cargo, particularly oil linked to the conflict in Ukraine.

The “shadow fleet” refers to a network of vessels that operate under opaque ownership structures, often re‑flagged to obscure their origins and evade export controls. The UK’s actions draw on powers granted under the Sanctions and Anti‑Money Laundering Act and the Merchant Shipping Act, with the Royal Navy, the Coastguard and the Joint Maritime Operational Centre coordinating efforts alongside allies. Officials said recent interceptions and fines demonstrate a growing capability to identify and sanction non‑compliant ships, reinforcing the government’s broader strategy to uphold the sanctions regime and protect the integrity of global maritime trade.