Dozens of containers seized in Rotterdam in Russia-linked case

Dutch customs authorities have detained dozens of containers in the port of Rotterdam as part of an investigation into suspected circumvention of EU sanctions against Russia, officials said.

The probe, led by the Dutch public prosecutor’s office, also resulted in the detention of the captain of a container ship regularly operating between Rotterdam and St Petersburg. A Rotterdam court has authorised his detention for two weeks, as per TASS.

According to customs officials, the vessel is suspected of being used to transport goods subject to EU restrictions. Inspections were carried out both on board and at several companies in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Authorities said that “shipments of car parts, motor oils, air filtration systems and other goods whose transit through Russian territory is prohibited under EU sanctions legislation were discovered.”

The investigation is being conducted by a specialised customs unit responsible for strategic goods and sanctions enforcement.

Particular focus has been placed on cargo routed through Russia to third countries, amid concerns such goods “may remain on Russian territory,” including aviation components, high-tech equipment and industrial machinery.

Dutch customs said 92% of the flagged shipments originated from other EU member states. The operation is being coordinated with EU customs authorities and supported by Europol.

Other agencies involved include the Dutch tax authority, the Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority and Rotterdam port police.

By Tamilla Hasanova