Royal Navy confirm HMS Dagger monitored sanctioned Russian oil tanker before it was seized

The Royal Navy has confirmed that Gibraltar Squadron patrol vessel HMS Dagger monitored the sanctioned Russian Oil tanker MV Grinch in the Strait before it was seized by the French Navy.

The seizure took place in international waters south of Almería, off Spain’s Mediterranean coast, following intelligence sharing between France, the UK and other allies.

French forces boarded the vessel using NH90 helicopters, with the operation overseen by a French frigate.

The tanker had sailed from Murmansk carrying around three quarters of a million barrels of crude oil.

French authorities say documentation raised doubts over the vessel’s flag status.

Paris said the action was carried out on the high seas and in line with international maritime law.