UK court denies bail to Indian captain of sanctioned Russian oil vessel
An Indian captain has been denied bail by a UK court while facing charges for violating sanctions by transporting Russian oil. The trial is scheduled for December, leaving the crew of the sanctioned vessel in legal limbo.
Why it matters
This case highlights the complexities of enforcing international maritime sanctions and the legal risks faced by seafarers caught in geopolitical disputes.
NEW DELHI: The Indian captain of a sanctioned Russian shadow fleet oil tanker seized by British armed forces last month was denied bail Thursday by a London court where he is accused of violating sanctions against Moscow.Ajay Pant (38), a resident of Chilkiya in Ramnagar, near Nainital, Uttarakhand, appeared at Southwark crown court via video link from prison on Thursday. No plea was entered and a four-week trial was scheduled to start December 15.Pant made an application for bail, which was denied over concerns he could abscond or receive assistance from Russia to flee.He also made an application for the charges against him to be dismissed, which will be heard on November 12.The principle charge Pant faces is the maritime transportation of certain oil and oil products to and between third countries, contrary to Regulation 46z9b of the Russia (Sanctions) (Eu Exit) Regulations, 2019.
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