A Greek-owned capesize bulker has become caught up in a drug seizure by US authorities.
More than 44 pounds (20 kg) of cocaine were discovered aboard the 180,700-dwt Samjohn Solidarity (built 2010) during an inspection off the US east coast, according to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The Golden Flame Shipping-controlled bulker was inspected just before the Easter holidays by officers from the CBP, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations, US Coast Guard and police from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
“During the inspection, the team discovered 20 bricks concealed inside the vessel’s anchor locker,” CBP said in a statement.
“The bricks contained a white, powdery substance that field-tested positive for the properties of cocaine.”
The agency said the cocaine had a value of $1m.
However, no arrests have been made.
A senior manager at Golden Flame Shipping told TradeWinds that US authorities have cleared both the management company and crew.
"The ship is currently loading to leave port again," he said.
The Samjohn Solidarity is currently at anchor in the Chesapeake Bay near Annapolis, Maryland, according to AIS data.
“Customs and Border Protection along with our law enforcement partners remain committed to intercepting transnational criminal organisations’ attempts to smuggle their dangerous drugs into the United States and we remain steadfast in our resolve to help keep our communities safe,” said Keith Fleming, acting director of field operations for CBP’s Baltimore field office.
Harry Papachristou contributed to this article
