U.S. forces seized an oil tanker Friday. This happened in the Caribbean Sea. The vessel was the Olina. This marks the fifth such interception recently. The operation occurred early Friday, January 9, 2026. Marines and sailors launched the mission. They came from the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier. This action supports the Department of Homeland Security. It is part of a wider effort. The goal is to curb illicit activities. It also aims to enforce sanctions on Venezuelan oil.
Pre-Dawn Operation Unfolds
The raid took place in the pre-dawn hours. Joint Task Force Southern Spear led the operation. They coordinated closely with Homeland Security. U.S. Southern Command confirmed the seizure on social media. They posted video footage. The footage showed a helicopter landing on the tanker. U.S. personnel were seen searching the deck. The operation proceeded without incident.
Background of the ‘Olina’
The Olina tanker is linked to sanctioned oil shipments. Records show it previously flew the flag of Timor-Leste. However, this was likely a false flag. Maritime registries list it as having an invalid registration. Its AIS location tracker was last active in November 2025. At that time, it was near the Venezuelan coast. The vessel previously sailed under the name Minerva M. It was sanctioned last year. The US sanctioned it for moving Russian oil. Analysts call such ships part of a “ghost fleet”. They operate with little regulation. Opaque ownership structures are also common. The Olina’s registered owner is a Hong Kong-based company.
Operation Southern Spear Intensifies
This seizure is part of Operation Southern Spear. The operation aims to disrupt illicit maritime networks. It seeks to degrade criminal organizations. U.S. Southern Command announced the mission’s goal. They want to “restore security in the Western Hemisphere”. This intensified effort follows other recent seizures. Earlier this week, the M Sophia tanker was interdicted in the Caribbean. Another vessel, the Marinera (formerly Bella 1), was seized in the North Atlantic. These actions underscore a broader U.S. strategy.
A Message to Criminals
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated the seizure sends a message. “There is no safe haven for criminals,” she said. She also noted the “ghost fleet” tankers will not outrun justice. They cannot hide under false claims of nationality. The U.S. Coast Guard enforces international law. They aim to eliminate funding streams for illicit activities. This includes narco-terrorism.
Broader Geopolitical Context
The seizure of the Olina occurs in a significant geopolitical moment. Just days prior, on January 3, 2026, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This capture was part of Operation Absolute Resolve. It has thrown Venezuela’s oil industry into turmoil. The U.S. has been working to control Venezuelan oil distribution globally. President Trump announced plans to relax some sanctions. This allows the U.S. to oversee sales of Venezuela’s petroleum worldwide. The energy deal aims to sell Venezuelan crude to U.S. buyers.
Regional Impact and Future Actions
These actions reflect an escalating U.S. campaign. The U.S. military has built up its presence in the Caribbean. The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group is a key element. This naval buildup aims to deter and interdict criminal networks. The U.S. plans to continue enforcing sanctions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated sanctions will remain until changes are made. The news today highlights ongoing regional developments. The U.S. is asserting control over the flow of Venezuelan oil. This news from the Caribbean signals continued U.S. resolve.