The United States military has seized another oil tanker, US Southern Command (USSouthCom) confirmed.

In a post to X on January 7, USSouthCom said the Department of War, in co-ordination with the Department of Homeland Security, apprehended M/T Sophia, "a stateless, sanctioned dark fleet motor tanker," without incident.

"The interdicted vessel, M/T Sophia, was operating in international waters and conducting illicit activities in the Caribbean Sea. The US Coast Guard is escorting M/T Sophia to the US for final disposition. Through Operation Southern Spear, the Department of War is unwavering in its mission to crush illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere. We will defend our homeland and restore security and strength across the Americas."