Ukrainian authorities have detained a cargo ship accused of smuggling approximately 5,000 tons of stolen grain from the Russian-occupied region of Crimea. The vessel, reportedly operating under a foreign flag to disguise its origin, was intercepted by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) with assistance from the Navy and border guards in the Black Sea.
According to officials, the ship had loaded the grain at the port of Sevastopol, which has been under Russian control since 2014. Evidence collected from the ship, including navigation records and shipping documents, allegedly confirms that the grain was taken illegally from occupied Ukrainian territory.
The crew has been detained for questioning, and an investigation is underway to identify all individuals and companies involved in the operation. Ukrainian officials emphasized that this seizure highlights their ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal activities connected to Russia’s war efforts and protect Ukraine’s agricultural resources.
This incident comes amid broader concerns about the looting of Ukrainian grain and its illegal sale on international markets. Authorities have pledged to take strong action against any future attempts to smuggle stolen goods from occupied territories.
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