The Special Prosecutor’s Office at the Court for the Suppression of Economic Offenses and Terrorism (CRIET) has firmly rejected misleading social media reports circulating about the AK MASHA ship case, describing them as “riddled with inaccuracies.”
In an official statement released on Tuesday, Special Prosecutor Elonm Mario Metonou emphasized the importance of respecting the legal process and warned against attempts to disrupt justice.
The AK MASHA, a foreign-flagged vessel, was intercepted on December 31, 2024, within Beninese territorial waters after its automatic identification system (AIS) was found deactivated—violating maritime navigation regulations.
A detailed investigation of the ship’s trajectory between the ports of Rouen and Lagos uncovered several suspicious irregularities, including intermittent AIS signals and questionable communications, prompting coordinated intervention by maritime and judicial authorities.
Eight crew members currently face prosecution on charges including smuggling, receiving stolen goods, and money laundering. Following the initial trial on April 28, 2025, CRIET issued verdicts that resulted in some convictions, the release of others, and the confiscation of the vessel by the Beninese state. An appeal hearing took place on August 4, 2025, with proceedings now adjourned until October 20.
Special Prosecutor Metonou underscored that any effort to influence the judiciary or interfere with the ongoing legal process is itself a punishable offense under Beninese law. He cited Article 279 of the Penal Code, which stipulates imprisonment of six to twelve months and/or fines up to 500,000 CFA francs for interference with justice.
“Respect for the rule of law must prevail, and false information undermines both public confidence and the integrity of our legal institutions,” Metonou stated, urging citizens and media to exercise caution and restraint.
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