Security Agencies Intercept Ship Carrying Suspected Nuclear Cargo
Officials at Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva port have intercepted and seized a consignment on a Karachi-bound ship from China, suspecting it to contain dual-use items with implications for Pakistan’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The consignment was discovered during a routine inspection of the Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, on January 23.
Potential Usage in Pakistan’s Nuclear Initiatives
Upon examination by a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) team, it was confirmed that the consignment included a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine manufactured by an Italian company. The CNC machine is known for its precision and efficiency and has potential usage in Pakistan’s nuclear initiatives, particularly in the manufacturing of crucial components for missile development.
Concerns Over Illicit Procurement Activities
Similar seizures of dual-use military-grade items being transhipped from China to Pakistan have raised concerns over illicit procurement activities. Investigations are underway to determine if the suspected Pakistani entities receiving these items are linked to the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DESTO), responsible for Pakistan’s defense research and development.
Discrepancies in Shipping Details
Further investigations revealed discrepancies in the shipping details, indicating potential evasion tactics to conceal the true recipients. The consignment, weighing 22,180 kilograms, had the consigner mentioned as “Shanghai JXE Global Logistics Co Ltd” and the consignee as “Pakistan Wings Pvt Ltd” of Sialkot. However, security agencies discovered that the consignment was actually shipped by Taiyuan Mining Import and Export Co Ltd and intended for Cosmos Engineering in Pakistan.
Persistent Cooperation Between Pakistan and China
This interception is not the first instance of Indian port officials seizing dual-use military-grade items being shipped from China to Pakistan. The cooperation between the two countries in activities that contravene global agreements raises concerns about potential proliferation activities. China’s assistance to Pakistan includes supplying sensitive materials or equipment clandestinely and acting as a conduit for the procurement of dual-use military-grade items from overseas.
Scrutiny and Violation of International Guidelines
The cooperation between China and Pakistan, along with China’s support in constructing nuclear power plants for Pakistan, has drawn scrutiny from international bodies. China has violated Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) guidelines by constructing nuclear power plants in Chashma and Karachi. The recent sanctions imposed by the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) on Chinese companies involved in supplying missile-relevant items to Pakistan further highlight the gravity of the situation.
Increased Oversight to Curb Potential Proliferation Activities
Given the seriousness of the situation, there is a need for heightened oversight to curb potential proliferation activities. International bodies and security agencies must continue to monitor and take necessary actions to prevent the illegal trade of missiles and the violation of control regimes.