India Launches Coordinated Operation with the U.S. Against Tankers
In a joint operation off the coast of Mumbai, involving the Indian Navy and Air Force, three oil tankers allegedly linked to “global criminal networks” were seized.
Authorities stated that the vessels, already under U.S. sanctions, were engaged in smuggling activities. The timing of the operation drew attention, coming shortly after the Trump administration’s decision to reduce customs tariffs on Indian goods.
Large-Scale Operation Near Mumbai
The Indian Coast Guard announced that three oil tankers under the control of “global criminal organizations” were detained in a comprehensive operation near Mumbai’s shores on February 6. The operation was supported by elements of the Indian Navy and Air Force.
Officials reported that the tankers were transporting oil from conflict zones and conducting ship-to-ship (STS) transfers at sea to evade customs payments. According to Times of India, the seized vessels were towed to Mumbai Port for detailed inspection and legal proceedings.
Links to Iran Identified
Information shared by London-based Iran International revealed that the detained tankers were connected to Iran, with one vessel flying the Iranian flag. The ships — Al Jafzia, Asphalt Star, and Stellar Ruby — are all listed under U.S. sanctions.
The Indian authorities’ move came immediately after U.S. President Donald Trump concluded a new trade agreement with India. Under the deal, the U.S. reduced tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%.
India Reduces Russian Oil Imports
President Trump also announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged to halt crude oil purchases from Russia, leading to the removal of punitive tariffs on Indian exports.
Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, Russian oil had captured more than 30% of the Indian market. However, recent months have seen a sharp decline. Bloomberg data shows that in December, India cut its imports of Russian oil by one-third compared to summer levels, down to 1.2 million barrels per day. Kpler data indicates the decline continued in January, falling to 1.1 million barrels per day.
According to Reuters, India’s state-owned refiners — Indian Oil and Bharat Petroleum — along with private-sector giant Reliance Industries, have scaled back purchases of Russian crude. Reports suggest these companies have stopped accepting new offers for shipments scheduled in March and April.
