The container ship Southern Lily 2 is still being prevented from leaving American Samoa's Pago Pago port.
This is the second week since the ship has been detained after a Coast guard inspection found problems with the vessel's water oil separator pump which ensures that only water is discharged from the ship.
Parts were to be flown from Singapore to make repairs and the owners were hoping to get clearance to leave port as soon as the repairs are done.
But it is understood the case has been referred to the Department of Justice and it is expected that criminal charges will be filed.
Some of the cargo on the ship is intended for this week's wedding of Tonga's Royal Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala.
Also held up are plastic water bottles for one of Samoa's leading suppliers of bottled water Le Vai.
