The UN Mission in South Sudan says the UN shipment that was seized in Port Mombasa, in Kenya is legitimate.

Last week, Kenyan authorities seized a private chartered ship which was carrying UN cargo, on suspicion that it was illegal drugs and weapons.

There were also media reports that the shipment was being delivered to the mission in South Sudan.

“In fact the weapons that were found in the shipment by the Kenyan authority were part of a legitimate and declared contingent owner equipment cargo packed in Mumbai, India with destination to the India battalion of Vonisco, in the DRC,” said the UNMISS Spokesperson to Eye Radio.

“The weapons were declared in the Bill of Lading, but not the manifest,” adding that this was the area of contention.

In a statement from the office of the Secretary General, the UN also denied allegations that the vessel was shipping illegal drugs.

According to Kenyan media, last week, the shipping company said it was not aware of the deadly cargo.

Ms. Arianne says the UN is working closely with the Kenyan authorities to resolve the matter.