UK plans to seize vessels linked to ‘shadow fleet

(MENAFN) The British government believes it has identified a legal framework that would allow its military to seize vessels in UK waters suspected of being part of a so-called “shadow fleet,” a news outlet reported. The measure is expected to target ships linked to Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, which the UK claims use third-party vessels to evade Western sanctions.

Under the 2018 Sanctions and Money Laundering Act, London can impose sanctions in line with UN resolutions and against entities accused of human rights violations. The law allows the government to detain “specified ships” in territorial waters or block them from entering, potentially affecting vessels passing through the English Channel. While it covers civilian vessels, naval ships of foreign nations are exempt, and the legislation does not explicitly reference the use of military force.

The news agency noted it remains unclear when, or if, the UK military might board a foreign vessel. So far, no such operations have occurred, though the UK recently assisted the US in seizing the Marinera oil tanker.

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