A Kremlin-linked oil tanker was detained by Estonian authorities on Friday just outside Tallinn, in what marks the first time the Baltic country has directly targeted Russia's "shadow fleet".
The vessel, named the Kiwala, had been reportedly operating under the flag of Djibouti. However, it was caught not flying a flag, which is a violation of maritime law. Although the crew provided a flag certificate, the Djibouti naval authority said it could not find the Kiwala in its national registry.
"Ships like this are actually not allowed to operate. Estonia exercised its right to detain the vessel for inspection," Deputy Director General of the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) Veiko Kommusaar said.
The Kiwala has been sanctioned by the EU, Kommusaar said. Additionally, the vessels has been under further sanctions by Canada, Switzerland and the UK, according to reports. It was en route to the Russian port of Ust-Luga.
As part of Moscow's "shadow fleet," it is suspected of transporting Russian oil in order to circumvent sanctions. The Kiwala will now remain under guard by three navy vessels until further checks are completed.
"It is no secret that over the past year, a number of vessels have appeared in the Gulf of Finland that sail without proper documentation," Kommusaar explained.
"And it can be stated quite clearly that it is part of the shadow fleet, which uses the Baltic Sea to transport goods, which is prohibited."
The vessel's owner is Tirad Shipping, a Mauritius-based company that operates only one ship — the Kiwala.
