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On July 16, 2026, the USS Boxer Amphibious Ready Group successfully intercepted the shadow fleet tanker known as 'Wen Yao' in the strategic waters of the Gulf of Oman. In a meticulously coordinated operation, U.S. Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit utilized helicopters to reach the vessel's deck for a flag verification boarding. The 'Wen Yao', which was misleadingly flagged in San Marino, has a complex ownership history showing it is operated from Dubai despite its Chinese-sounding name. At the time of interception, the tanker was carrying a substantial load of Iranian fuel oil. Interestingly, the crew executed a series of evasive maneuvers while under pursuit by U.S. naval forces, frequently changing the vessel's name and flag throughout the day. By the moment U.S. forces boarded the ship, it had shifted identities and was identified as the 'Azhin' while displaying an Iranian flag. For more insight into this operation, watch the video here: https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2077866609138393167/video/1.

In a notable maritime event, the Strait of Hormuz saw the passage of two vessels, the 'Skywave' and 'Wen Yao,' on March 13, 2026. The 'Wen Yao' marked a significant milestone as the first sanctioned tanker to navigate this critical waterway while keeping its AIS (Automatic Identification System) operational. This unusual decision diverges from the typical tactics employed by vessels in the shadow fleet, who commonly disable their AIS to evade detection. The transit of the 'Wen Yao' within the Gulf raises important questions about compliance and navigation strategies amid international scrutiny.

The Kochi coastal police have initiated an investigation into an unnatural death after the captain of the crude oil tanker 'Wen Yao' was found dead on December 27. The incident occurred as the vessel was navigating near Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep, with police reporting the time of death at approximately 11:15 AM. Following the incident, the ship made its way to the outer anchorage of the Port of Cochin, India, where authorities boarded the vessel for a detailed inquiry. The late captain's body was subsequently transported to the Ernakulam General Hospital for an autopsy, which has been scheduled for December 29. Crew members recounted that the captain had been experiencing issues related to gas, digestion, and mild chest pain prior to his untimely death, despite receiving medical treatment onboard. A coastal police official stated that the vessel will not be permitted to proceed until the results of the autopsy are available.

In a heartbreaking incident, the captain of the tanker 'Wen Yao' passed away on December 27, 2022, while navigating the waters off Kochi port in the Arabian Sea. The vessel, which was making its journey from Singapore to the United Arab Emirates, was forced to pause its voyage and head towards Kochi Anchorage. It safely anchored there on the afternoon of December 28. The 43-year-old Indian national's remains were subsequently transported to a local hospital. Preliminary reports indicate that illness was the cause of death, and authorities have ruled out any foul play. As of December 29, the 'Wen Yao' continued to remain stationary at coordinates 09° 54.40'N 076° 07.11'E.