A Mumbai-based commercial ship manager was among three individuals and nine entities sanctioned by the European Union for being involved in the import of sanctioned goods to Russia and circumventing EU sanctions related to oil and financial transactions.
Vigor Marine Services LLP was sanctioned because its two vessels were allegedly involved in transporting crude oil or petroleum products originating in Russia, according to a statement from the European Council.
The company was also accused of "practicing irregular and high-risk shipping practices," the statement said. These high-risk activities included "inadequate liability insurance, engaging in ship-to-ship transfers and manipulating the vessels’ Automatic Identification System (AIS)."
The sanctions are part of the EU's oader effort to crack down on the circumvention of its restrictive measures against Russia. The EU has been increasingly targeting entities in third countries that are believed to be assisting Moscow in evading sanctions, especially those related to its crucial oil exports.
Manipulating a vessel's AIS is a common tactic used to obscure a ship's journey and is considered a major red flag by maritime authorities. Ship-to-ship transfers on the high seas are also used to hide the origin of cargo.
The sanctions against the Mumbai-based firm highlight the global reach of the EU's enforcement actions as it seeks to close loopholes that allow Russian oil to continue flowing despite a price cap and other restrictions.
Source: European Council
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