TEHRAN – In a blow to an organized fuel smuggling network, Iranian Border Patrol Commander Brigadi Ahmadari Gordalji has announced the intercept of an oil tanker carrying 2,030,755 litres of illegal diesel in the exclusive economic zone of the Persian Gulf.
The operation, carried out in cooperation with the navy of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Artes) led to the arrest of 17 foreigners.
In an interview Monday, Goudarzi stressed that “Border Guards in Hormozgan “harvested comprehensive intelligence surveillance, electronic surveillance systems and aerial reconnaissance” to identify the Phoenix, a vessel that has bulged under a third country.
“Through a coordinated operational plan with the Navy, we moved and inspected the tanker,” he said, noting that the seizures “represents the biggest financial blow to smuggling the syndicate this year.”
The suspect in custody was transferred to Jask’s legal authority for the prosecutor. Goudarzi has succeeded in “enhancing military defensive synergies between Iranian maritime and cross-land border forces,” which systematically dismantled smuggling networks that exploit regional waters.
Iran has consistently demonstrated its role in supporting the safety and stability of the Persian Gulf. This is an important waterway with nearly 20% of the world’s oil flowing.
Iran aims to use advanced surveillance technologies such as drones and coastal radar along with Agile maritime units to protect the peace of the region, promote global trade and contribute to a safe environment that protects its economic interests.
Iran’s commitment to maritime security goes beyond the fight against smuggling. The Islamic Republic has played a crucial role in ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a choke point through which a significant portion of the world’s oil passes. Iran’s navy has acted consistently to stop copyright infringement and protect international shipping lanes.