Maputo, 21 Jul (AIM) – Mozambique’s National Maritime Transport Institute (INTRASMAR) has revealed that the controversial ship, the “Yangtze 8” that was seen off Xai-Xai beach, in the southern province of Gaza, had been anchored in Mozambican waters for several days because of bad weather.
The ship raised several questions when it was seen by the people of Xai-Xai, as its origin was unknown. Social media was soon full of speculation that it was some kind of pirate vessel, which had entered the country for criminal reasons. It was suggested that the ship was carrying contraband or was operated by drug traffickers.
But, according to Pelágio Duvane, the INTRASMAR delegate in Gaza, speaking to reporters on Sunday, the authorities checked out the operation and found that the ship had begun its journey in Singapore and was bound for Malta, carrying wind turbines, “a cargo that is considered sensitive and cannot be exposed to heavy seas.” The ship has 21 crew members on board.
“Two vessels were mobilized for the verification operation, which reached the ship and clarified the situation. The Navy was also involved in the efforts and has guaranteed that the ship poses no threat to national security. After an inspection, it was confirmed that it is legally authorized and does not carry hazardous materials”, Duvane said.
He explained that authorities will continue to monitor the situation, as there have been difficulties communicating with the crew.
According to a report in Monday’s issue of the independent newssheet “Carta de Mocambique”, the ship has now left Gaza, and is currently in South African waters.
A port source cited by the paper said the “Yangtze 8” was never in any danger and had merely taken shelter from bad weather. “The place where the ship sheltered is not under the jurisdiction of Maputo port”, the source said. “Since it was in no danger, it did not request shelter in the port”.
The ship has now resumed its journey to Malta, where it is expected to arrive on 14 August.
It needed no assistance to leave Mozambican waters and never issued any distress signal.
(AIM)
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