Stories from February 19, 2026
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Shipwrecks, Sham Papers and False Flags: Tracking the Company Behind It All
An investigation found a company is still operating fraudulent maritime registries, enabling high-risk vessels to operate unsafely.
A Bellingcat investigation has revealed that Captain Suniel Kumar Sharma continues to operate fraudulent maritime flag registries, including the International Maritime Safety Agency of Guyana (IMSAG), despite his claims that the company is no longer operational. The investigation found IMSAG issued certificates as recently as December 2025, and evidence suggests Sharma is establishing a new registry in Nicaragua. Sharma's entities have been linked to vessels involved in incidents such as a shipwreck in India and an ammunition seizure in Senegal, operating with false documentation. These unauthorized registries enable high-risk vessels, including sanctioned tankers, to operate without oversight, posing risks to safety and the environment. This ongoing activity highlights a persistent challenge in maritime regulation and enforcement.