Who is Ajay Pant? Merchant Navy Captain detained in UK for allegedly transporting sanctioned Russian oil | Details
Indian Merchant Navy Captain Ajay Pant has been in UK custody since June after being arrested in a case involving the alleged transportation of sanctioned Russian oil. The MEA says it is in touch with his lawyers and family and is monitoring his well-being ahead of his trial.
Ajay Pant, a 38-year-old Indian merchant navy captain, is currently detained in the United Kingdom for allegedly transporting sanctioned Russian oil. The UK authorities have identified him as the captain of the MV Smyrtos, a tanker described as part of Russia's shadow fleet. Pant was taken into custody on June 14, 2026, after British authorities seized the tanker in the English Channel.
He is charged under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 for allegedly transporting or facilitating the delivery of Russian oil and petroleum products by sea to another country.
Pant has been in judicial custody since June, and his case has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding his arrest. The Indian government, through the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian High Commission in London, has been maintaining contact with his lawyers, family, and British authorities to ensure his well-being and legal support. Pant is married and has two children, aged eight and one, and was the primary breadwinner for his family.
Written by urgent.news from Live Mint's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
