French prosecutors open inquiry into captain of seized tanker DF Peak

Prosecutors in Saint-Denis, Réunion, have opened an investigation into the captain of the tanker DF Peak, which is suspected of belonging to Russia's shadow fleet, AFP reports. The captain is accused of failing to justify the ship's nationality after French Navy boarders found its Benin flag to be irregular, an offence punishable by up to two years in prison, a €300,000 fine and possible confiscation of the vessel. The prosecutor ordered the tanker diverted to an anchorage off the island. Its 21 crew, of several nationalities, are being held on board under restrictions for an initial 48 hours, which a judge can extend. Investigators will also try to identify the owner and operator, who could face criminal liability.

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