nairiporter | Shipwreck affected SA trade

Shipwreck costs SA customers millions
http://www.sabcnews.com/south_africa/general/0,2172,142560,00.html

South African individuals and companies have suffered losses of up to R500 million after the container ship MSC Napoli ran aground off the southwest English coast at the weekend, spilling dozens of containers onto the shoreline, Beeld reported today.

The ship was headed for Cape Town. The Mediterranean shipping company's Glen Delve said more than 80% of the 2 323 containers on the vessel had cargo destined for South Africa. The ship would have docked in Cape Town on January 29.

BMW South Africa's Guy Kilfoil confirmed the cargo included 39 BMW motorcycles valued at R4.5 million, which had been destined for South African customers and dealers. While the bikes had been insured, a delay of about a month for replacements was expected.

News agency reports said English looters have made off with bounty amid chaotic scenes on the beach off Branscombe village, about 25km east of Exeter, where the ship had been run aground.

The internet auction site eBay has begun removing items for sale which were taken by scavengers. - Sapa