The captain of a Russian shadow fleet tanker seized in the English Channel has appeared in court, maintaining that he was merely following orders. Ajay Pant, a 38-year-old Indian national, faces allegations related to the attempted delivery of 98,000 tonnes of oil, which is subject to international sanctions.

Pant appeared before Southampton magistrates’ court on Monday, where he reportedly stated that the vessel’s route and activities were not his decision. The tanker was intercepted by Royal Marine Commandos on Sunday as part of an operation to enforce sanctions against shipments of banned Russian oil.

Following his court appearance, Pant was remanded in custody. His next hearing is scheduled for July 16 at Bournemouth crown court, where further proceedings will take place. Authorities have not disclosed detailed information about the tanker or the specific circumstances surrounding the interception, but the case highlights the ongoing efforts by the United Kingdom to uphold restrictions on sanctioned Russian energy exports.