Belgian Forces Seize Oil Tanker Suspected of Sailing Under False Flag

Belgian authorities announced on Sunday that special forces had boarded and seized an oil tanker suspected of operating under a false flag in the North Sea. According to official statements, the operation was conducted overnight with aerial support from French military helicopters.

The vessel, identified by prosecutors as the “Ethera,” was intercepted within Belgium’s exclusive economic zone and subsequently escorted to the port of Zeebrugge. The Belgian Defence Minister, Theo Francken, confirmed the successful interception and transfer of the tanker.

Reports indicate that the Ethera is part of what officials described as the “shadow fleet” allegedly used by Russia to circumvent Western sanctions related to the conflict in Ukraine. The ship was reportedly on its way back to Russia at the time of interception.

Authorities stated that the Ethera was flying the flag of Guinea. However, an on-board inspection by Belgian officials confirmed suspicions that the vessel was sailing under a false flag. The Belgian federal prosecutor’s office has opened a criminal investigation into the matter.

A spokesperson for the prosecutor’s office said that the ship’s captain, a Russian national, is currently being questioned by investigators. No further details regarding the crew or cargo were provided in the available reports.

Officials emphasized that sailing under a false flag constitutes a violation of international maritime regulations. The investigation is ongoing, and Belgian authorities have not yet disclosed what charges, if any, may be brought against those involved.

Sources familiar with the matter noted that the operation was coordinated between Belgian and French forces, highlighting cross-border cooperation in enforcing maritime law in the region.