Iran Seizes Tanker in Gulf of Oman: Fuel Smuggling Accusations Unveiled

Iranian authorities have detained 18 crew members from a foreign tanker allegedly carrying smuggled fuel in the Gulf of Oman. The Hormozgan province judiciary reported the tanker was transporting 6 million litres of illicit fuel. The crew, including the captain, is under investigation for multiple violations.

Iranian authorities detained 18 crew members from a foreign tanker in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was reportedly carrying 6 million litres of smuggled fuel, according to Iranian media citing the Hormozgan province judiciary.

The ongoing investigation has also implicated the tanker's captain among those detained. Although the vessel's identity and the nationalities of the crew remain undisclosed, authorities claim it violated several laws, including ignoring stop orders and attempting to flee without proper documentation for navigation and cargo.

Iran faces a significant challenge with fuel smuggling, exacerbated by its low fuel prices. These prices arise from heavy government subsidies and a weakened currency, leading to rampant smuggling activities by land to neighboring countries and by sea to Gulf Arab states.