Reuters in Kunsan
Friday October 31, 2003
The Guardian (UK)
South Korean security forces inspected a cargo ship in the port of Kunsan yesterday after a tip-off that it could be carrying al-Qaida members.
The vessel, called the Athena and flying the Bahamas flag, was carrying timber and was scheduled to stay in the port for a week. Officials gave no further details. "Authorities received a tip about possible al-Qaida members, and we're prepared," the national intelligence service said.
A Greek shipping company, Petrobulk Maritime, said "Our vessel did arrive in South Korea and the authorities did inspect it. They left a little while ago saying everything was in order and apologised for the inconvenience."