Decision pending until arms ship docks in Durban

SARS decision pending until Chinese arms ship docks

The South African Revenue Services (SARS) says it will only be able to establish whether the reported arms cargo on the Chinese vessel outside Durban harbour will be released, once it has docked. The An Yue Jiang is alleged to be carrying millions of rounds of ammunition and other weaponry, destined for Zimbabwe.

Sars says when customs officials are allowed onto the ship they will be able to establish whether the goods correspond with the ship's documentation. If the necessary procedures have been followed they will release the goods.

Sars says it is part of its ordinary business as customs to monitor all vessels that report to Durban harbour. And it says this case is not unique because it has a political definition.