United States authorities have taken control of a fourth oil tanker linked to Venezuela as part of ongoing maritime enforcement actions targeting vessels suspected of violating international sanctions.

According to U.S. officials, the tanker was intercepted in international waters following extended monitoring. Law enforcement personnel boarded the vessel under legal authority and secured control without reported resistance. The ship is alleged to have been involved in the transport of crude oil connected to Venezuela’s sanctioned energy sector.

Officials indicated that the vessel had engaged in evasive practices commonly associated with sanction-avoidance operations, including changes in vessel identity and flag registration. Such methods are frequently linked to so-called “dark fleet” activities aimed at obscuring ownership and cargo origin.

This latest action follows several similar interdictions carried out in recent weeks, signaling an intensified focus on maritime routes believed to be facilitating restricted oil trade. Authorities stated that the operation forms part of broader efforts to enforce international sanctions and maintain oversight of illicit maritime commerce.

No injuries or environmental incidents were reported during the boarding. Further legal proceedings are expected to determine the vessel’s disposition and any potential penalties.