Recent satellite and ship tracking data revealed that the oil tanker Skipper is currently anchored off the coast of Texas. This vessel marks the first ship seized by US authorities for allegedly transporting oil that is under Venezuelan sanctions.
Details of the Seizure
On December 10, the Skipper was confiscated while it was masquerading under the flag of Guyana. The ship’s seizure was part of a broader effort to enforce sanctions against vessels linked to Venezuelan oil. Following the Skipper’s interception, US authorities apprehended another ship, the Centuries, which was not under sanctions at the time.
Current Location of the Skipper
As of December 21, satellite imagery shows the Skipper approximately 50 miles offshore near Galveston, Texas. The vessel’s position was confirmed through AIS ship-tracking data provided by MarineTraffic.
Ongoing Operations Against Venezuelan Oil Transport
- US authorities are now focusing on a third vessel, the Bella 1.
- The Bella 1 has been in transit for about 39 days.
- It is traveling at an average speed of 11 knots and could have 28 to 35 days of fuel left.
- Predictions indicate that it is likely heading southeast toward South Africa.
In a recent statement, former President Donald Trump voiced optimism about the ongoing operations, asserting that the US “will end up getting it.” Efforts to intercept additional vessels added momentum to a rigorous campaign aimed at curbing illicit oil trade from Venezuela.
