The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMARAD) said it is investigating North Korea-linked vessels that may be registered with the organization in breach of UN resolutions.

Some countries allow foreign companies to purchase vessel registration documents and flags, the practice is generally not illegal though the DPRK is prohibited from doing so by the UN Security Council (UNSC).

North Korea has long abused the practice of registering vessels abroad to obfuscate its involvement with certain ships, cargos, and companies.

“Please be informed that Sierra Leone flag is exercising utmost efforts to address these allegations and investigate this matter,” a SLMARAD representative said