Unveiling truth: fabrication behind ship seizure at Mumbai

The recent seizure of a Karachi-bound ship at Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva Port has stirred a controversy with allegations that some material in the ship had links with Pakistan’s nuclear and ballistic missile programme. A closer examination of the issue, however, reveals that the allegations are baseless, concocted and nothing beyond an attempt to undermine specific businesses through misrepresentation.

The seizure of the CMA CGM Attila — a Malta-flagged commercial vessel, accused of transporting a dual-use consignment with probable links to Pakistan’s nuclear programme — necessitates a deeper scrutiny. Among the products withheld is a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine, a standard piece of equipment used for precise manufacturing in a variety of industries, including the automobile sector. While there have been claims about the potential use of CNC machine in military applications, it is important to remember that such machines are routinely used for legitimate fabrication purposes and are not restricted objects. A thorough review of the equipment’s specifications reveals that it is widely used for commercial purposes.

As regards needful documentation, all shipment-related transactions were undertaken through transparent banking channels and fully documented. The shipment was intended for import by a Karachi-based commercial company that specialises in selling parts to Pakistan’s automobile industry. There is no convincing evidence to substantiate any suspicion of illegal intent behind the transaction.

The claims made by Indian security forces and repeated by chosen media sources appear to be part of a larger effort to undermine specific groups. Such unfounded accusations not only degrade the reputations of individuals involved, but also demonstrate the dangers of misinformation and arbitrary disruptions in global trade. The seizure of the shipment by Indian officials highlights the dangers of assuming policing responsibilities without specific evidence or reasonable reasons. Such acts not only strain diplomatic relations, but they also establish a dangerous precedent for international trade and cooperation, increasing mistrust and uncertainty.

In reaction to the false claims, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on March 3^rd, 2024 stated that such reports are reflective of Indian media’s habitual misrepresentation of facts. It adds that it is a simple case of import of a commercial lathe machine by a Karachi-based commercial entity, which supplies parts to the automobile sector in Pakistan and import is being done after fulfilling the requisite documentation obligations. The private entity opposes the seizure and is ready to take up the case formally in a bid to highlight the need to maintain transparency and adhere to international legal standards.

This incident serves as a sharp reminder that Indian impunity in violating international rules and imposing arbitrary measures without consequence is growing alarmingly. It emphasises the critical need for increased responsibility, fact-checking of claims and a firm commitment to the ideals of free trade and mutual cooperation without bringing petty politics in between.

The seizure is an unjustified action based on unverified claims and misinformation, indicating a botched attempt at tarnishing the global responsible image of Pakistan with respect to its nuclear arsenal as well as India’s never ending obsession with making Pakistan look bad at any forum and failing terribly in the end. Maintaining openness, fairness and obedience to international law remains crucial for creating confidence and cooperation among nations while preventing further harm to lawful trade and international relations.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 5^th, 2024.

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