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US Seizes Tanker in Atlantic Over Alleged Sanctions Breaches Linked to Venezuelan Oil
The United States has announced the seizure of a tanker in the North Atlantic that authorities say is linked to violations of US sanctions involving Venezuelan and Iranian oil, marking a significant enforcement action amid heightened scrutiny of illicit maritime trade.
In a statement posted on X, the US European Command (EUCOM) said the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security had “announced the seizure of the M/V Bella 1 for violations of US sanctions.” According to EUCOM, the operation was carried out pursuant to a warrant issued by a US federal court, after the vessel was tracked across the Atlantic by the US Coast Guard cutter Munro.
US officials said the Coast Guard had obtained legal authorisation to seize the ship after determining it had been involved in sanctionable activity, including the alleged transportation of Iranian oil. When approached, the vessel reportedly attempted to evade enforcement by altering its course, changing its name, and re-registering as a Russian-flagged ship.
Investigators further disclosed that the tanker had previously been falsely registered under a Guyanese flag. While it has a history of transporting Venezuelan crude oil, authorities said the vessel is believed to be empty at the time of its seizure.
The Bella 1 was pursued by US authorities across a wide stretch of the North Atlantic, underscoring what officials described as a sustained and coordinated effort to enforce international sanctions and uphold maritime law. Reports also suggest that Russia deployed a submarine to assist in escorting the vessel during part of its transatlantic journey, a development that highlights the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding global energy shipments and sanctions enforcement.
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Investigation Continues as Andrew Released After Historic Royal Arrest
Search efforts and inquiries remain ongoing after Prince Andrew was released under investigation following a day spent in police custody.
More than 19 hours after he was photographed reclining in the back seat of a vehicle upon release, the King’s younger brother remains at the centre of an active inquiry. The 66-year-old spent approximately 11 hours in custody on his birthday after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The development marked the first arrest of a senior royal in modern history.
Following his release, Andrew departed Aylsham Police Station after a lengthy period that involved hours of transport and waiting.
Although no charges have been filed, Andrew has been released under investigation — meaning he is free to resume daily activities for now, but remains subject to further questioning as inquiries progress.
Authorities continue to examine matters linked to properties associated with the Duke, including locations connected to the Sandringham Estate.
According to royal correspondent Helena Wilkinson, Andrew’s legal situation remains unresolved, and he may be required to return for additional interviews as the investigation develops.
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Andrew arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
Authorities have confirmed that Prince Andrew was arrested earlier today on suspicion of misconduct in public office, marking a significant development that is now set to move through the formal legal system.
The arrest took place at a residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk at approximately 08:00 this morning. Police have since continued investigative searches at that property, as well as at his former home located within Windsor Great Park.
In recent weeks, Andrew had relocated from Windsor to establish a temporary base at Sandringham while renovation work progresses on his future long-term residence at nearby Marsh Farm.
The Sandringham Estate, originally acquired in 1862 as a private retreat for the future Edward VII when he was Albert, Prince of Wales, has long remained a cherished country residence passed from monarch to monarch. It continues to serve as a traditional gathering place for the Royal Family, particularly during the Christmas period.
It is understood Andrew has been staying at Wood Farm, a secluded house near the village of Wolferton. The residence holds personal significance, having been chosen by his father, Prince Philip, as his primary home following retirement from public duties in 2017.
Today, Sandringham has seen heightened police presence as the investigation proceeds.
Meanwhile, King Charles III continued with his scheduled public engagements in London, where he was greeted by both questions and expressions of public support upon arrival.
Maintaining continuity and stability, the King chose—like the Queen earlier—to proceed with previously planned duties. In a statement, he reaffirmed confidence in due process, noting that “the law must take its course.”
It has also been confirmed that neither the King nor Buckingham Palace were informed in advance of the arrest, underscoring the independence of the legal process now underway.
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Police Review Private Flights at Stansted Following Epstein File Revelations
Authorities are assessing new information concerning private jet movements at Stansted Airport after fresh scrutiny linked to the activities of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Essex Police confirmed it is examining details related to private flights arriving at and departing from the airport in light of disclosures emerging from the recently published Epstein files.
The review follows calls from former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who urged in the New Statesman that law enforcement should “urgently” revisit whether Epstein’s victims may have been trafficked into or out of the United Kingdom.
A previous investigation identified 87 flights connected to Epstein that either landed at or departed from UK airports between the early 1990s and 2018.
Stansted Airport has maintained that private aircraft operations are conducted independently, noting that it does not oversee passenger arrangements for privately chartered flights.
The police assessment is part of broader efforts to understand any potential connections between flight activity and trafficking concerns raised in the wake of the latest disclosures.
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