The French navy announced on Tuesday that it had opened an investigation into the Benin-flagged oil tanker Boracay, suspected of violating international rules. The case has been handed over to the Brest prosecutor’s office, which has already launched formal proceedings, reports “Reuters“, quoted by News.bg.
Built in 2007, the tanker is on the UK and European Union sanctions lists. London and Brussels imposed restrictions in October 2024 and February 2025, respectively, accusing the vessel of transporting Russian crude oil and petroleum products through “irregular and high-risk practices“. British authorities say the Boracay was used to activities supporting the Russian government and threatening the stability of Ukraine.
The ship has changed its name several times - Kiwala, Pushpa and currently Boracay. Regardless of the names, the unique IMO number remains unchanged. In April 2025, Estonia released it after being detained for not flying a valid flag.
The Boracay is part of the “shadow fleet“, a group of old tankers with unclear ownership and insurance, often used to circumvent sanctions against Russian oil. The tanker is currently anchored off the Atlantic coast of France, near Saint-Nazaire.