Antaq investigates security issues at Port of Natal

Antaq (Brazil’s National Waterway Transportation Agency) have begun an investigation into security issues following the discovery of 3.3 tons of cocaine hidden in CMA CGM containers. The first phase of the investigation, which is due to end on April 25, will look deeper into CMA CGM’s complaint that the Port of Natal lacks security. The second phase of the investigation, involving inspections at the port by Antaq officials, will start sometime in April.

CMA CGM, the sole operator at the port have threatened an indefinite suspension of calls at Natal unless the port authorities take proper measures to improve security. The French company sent a letter to port authorities outlining areas that need immediate attention, including failure to scan containers, lack of on-site surveillance, inadequate cargo control, and lack of port security at the dock, to name a few.

CMA CGM also highlighted that the cocaine found in containers in the Port of Natal and the Port of Rotterdam (from Natal exports), compromises activities and is against company principles.

The following DataLiner graph shows CMA CGM’s container exports from the port since 2009:

Sharing is caring!