An investigation into a potential bomb threat in a container aboard the containership Maersk Memphis is active, according to the United States Coast Guard.
#update #investigation into Maersk Memphis threat active and ongoing by unified command in Charleston.
— USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) June 15, 2017
The USCG’s report states that the authorities were made aware of the threat at around 8 p.m. on Wednesday, local time.
Operated by Maersk Line, the Maersk Memphis is currently moored at the Port of Charleston’s Wando terminal which has been evacuated while law enforcement units from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies investigated the threat. A one nautical mile safety zone was earlier established around the containership, the USCG informed.
#Update A 1 NM safety zone has been established around the vessel while law enforcement authorities investigate the threat.
— USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) June 15, 2017
A unified command has been set up to oversee the coordinated response.
World Maritime News contacted Maersk Line for more details on the matter, however, the company is yet to reply.