Superyachts affiliated with Russian oligarchs literally go “under the radar” to avoid sanctions.
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Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, at least 13 superyachts have been seized. At the same time, more are disappearing from tracking systems.
A survey by The Guardian’s sister newspaper Observer this weekend, reveals that at least one in six superyachts affiliated with British-sanctioned oligarchs in Russia has “disappeared” from tracking systems. It writes The Guardian.
Analysts tell the newspaper that there has been an increase in the number of yachts with Russian connections that turn off the automatic identification system AIS. The system is normally used to track large ships.
–In some cases, there may be good reasons to turn off the identification system, but according to the Observer, there are many indications that some vessels are simply trying to avoid being detected.
“Economic weapons”
In response to Russia’s unlawful attacks on Ukraine, the EU, Britain and the United States have imposed extensive sanctions on the Putin regime. The “economic weapons” are particularly aimed at Russian oligarchs.
The owners of the “disappeared” yachts know almost for sure that they are the target of international hunting of super-rich Russians. And now there are more who seem to be trying to hide.
–An analysis from Observer of AIS data shows that several superyachts have been missing without a trace for more than one month.
A crew member on one of the superyachts sanctioned by the United Kingdom told the Observer that they had been told to turn off the identification system.
– We removed the screws on the plug and pulled it out.
–Fortune reports this week that a superyacht associated with Leonid Mikhelson – Russia’s richest after President Putin – has recently been identified, after almost two weeks without sharing a position. The superyacht was seen in the Mediterranean, just outside Malta, according to Bloomberg.
Sailing without a position transmitter is contrary to international maritime law.
The superyachts have been seized all over the world – from France to Fiji. They currently have a total value of approximately NOK 17.5 billion.
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