A Container line operator recently had one of its containers searched at a load port terminal in Guayaquil, Ecuador by drug enforcement officers. During the search, 478 kilograms of cocaine were found. The drugs were stuffed inside vegetables, suggesting that any type of cargo can be used as a disguise. The shipment was booked with a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) and the actual shipper is unknown. The UK P&I club have advised container lines, that accept NVOCC booking from areas that are high risk for drug trafficking, to notify their NVOCC shippers and recommend a thorough check for all new customers, to ensure they are not involved in any illegal activities.
Source: UK P&I
