Ship caught off PE with weapons

A Russian cargo vessel alleged to be illegally carrying explosives that are considered to be possible weapons of mass destruction has been arrested and ordered by authorities to anchor in Algoa Bay, 15km off the Nelson Mandela Bay coastline.

Authorities have confirmed the ship has dangerous cargo on board but the exact nature of the explosives and weapons, valued by police at about R50m, is shrouded in mystery.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) – the Hawks – has taken over the docket but has declined to comment.

The bust follows an operation on Sunday at the Port of Ngqura, when the Russian vessel, the Lada, docked to offload 14 containers – with the correct permits – which had been dispatched to SA, at the port.

However, it is alleged that 20 other containers found on board are illegal.

A criminal investigation has been opened for allegedly flouting regulations under the NonProliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction Act, as well as the Explosives Act.

An official, who declined to be named, said the find had come as a result of a tip-off.

He said the illegal containers were destined for Lagos in Nigeria and for the US.

The 14 containers destined for SA were dispatched by a company named Solar India.

Ngqura port manager Tandi Lebakeng said the Lada had come from Madagascar and was heading to Lagos.

The illegal containers were destined for Lagos in Nigeria and for the US