A superyacht owned by a Russian national was today (Tuesday) impounded in London's Canary Wharf by officers from the National Crime Agency (NCA).
Following some fast-paced work by intelligence officers in the NCA's Combating Kleptocracy Cell – supported by colleagues from Border Force Maritime Intelligence Bureau – the ultimate owner of the vessel Phi was identified. This information was passed to Transport Secretary Grant Shapps MP, who today ordered the first ever detention of a superyacht in UK waters.
As a result NCA officers issued the notice of detention. Owned by a Russian businessman, Phi is the third biggest yacht built by prestigious shipbuilders Royal Huisman and includes what the builders call an "infinite wine cellar" and patented fresh-water swimming pool.
