7 Mar 2013

Vanuatu police complete investigations into super yacht, Phocea

5:15 am on 7 March 2013

Vanuatu's Police Commissioner Arthur Caulton says the force is no longer investigating any member of the crew or management of the super yacht, the Phocea.

The Phocea has been detained since last July in Port Vila harbour due to false documentation and lack of registration.

After the boat entered Vanuatu without proper clearance last year, Major Caulton says police assisted the Customs officials inspecting the vessel, suspecting it carried contraband.

The Commissioner says they found no contraband.

He says police have completed investigations into the boarding of the yacht by two government ministers before the Phocea had been cleared.

"There are matters for two ministers that are still at the court to be heard. But at the moment, it is now up to the Customs Department and Ports & Harbours (Authority) for clearing this vessel to leave Vanuatu."

Police Commissioner Arthur Caulton.