French authorities have released the captain of the tanker Tagor after approximately 24 hours in detention, while judicial investigations into the vessel continue.

The tanker was intercepted by the French Navy on May 31 in the Atlantic Ocean and escorted to an anchorage near Brest, France. Authorities suspected the vessel of operating under a false flag and linked it to the so-called “shadow fleet,” a network of ships alleged to be involved in transporting sanctioned oil.

According to French prosecutors, the captain was released on June 3 to allow investigators to continue what they described as a complex and extensive inquiry. Despite the captain’s release, the tanker remains under the control of French authorities and anchored in Douarnenez Bay, Brittany.

Prosecutors indicated that potential charges remain under review, including issues related to vessel registration and compliance with naval instructions. If pursued, such charges could carry financial penalties and possible imprisonment under French law.

The Tagor was reportedly sailing from Murmansk, Russia, when it was intercepted. French authorities are continuing efforts to verify the vessel’s ownership, registration status, and operational activities. The vessel has been linked by various reports to sanctioned oil transportation networks.

The development marks the latest update in France’s ongoing efforts to monitor and investigate vessels suspected of sanctions evasion and maritime registration irregularities.