France Detains Crew of Russian-Linked Tanker Amid Denmark Drone Investigations

French authorities have detained the captain and first officer of the Boracay, a tanker suspected of involvement in recent drone incidents over Denmark. The vessel, flagged under Benin and linked to Russia's "shadow fleet," was intercepted by French naval forces off the coast of Saint-Nazaire. The arrests were confirmed by Brest Prosecutor Stéphane Kellenberger, who stated that the individuals identified themselves as the ship's captain and first officer. They are accused of failing to provide proof of the vessel's nationality and non-compliance with orders, leading to an extension of their detention.

The Boracay was reportedly near Copenhagen on September 22 when drone activity led to the temporary closure of the city's airport. Similar drone sightings occurred on September 24 near Esbjerg and other Danish airports, coinciding with the vessel's movements along Denmark's western coast.

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of investigating these incidents, noting that Russia's "shadow fleet" comprises between 600 and 1,000 ships. He highlighted the need to exert pressure on this fleet, which plays a significant role in Moscow's economic activities.

Danish authorities have not confirmed a direct link between the Boracay and the drone incursions but are actively investigating the matter. The Kremlin has stated it has no information about the vessel but mentioned that the Russian military occasionally acts to restore order when foreign countries engage in what it describes as "provocative actions."

The Boracay, previously sanctioned by the UK and the European Union, departed from the Russian port of Primorsk on September 20. Its interception and the subsequent arrests underscore the heightened vigilance of European nations in addressing potential security threats linked to maritime activities.